Power Outages and Storms
When storms hit, there is a chance your power could go out. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a possible power outage, staying safe during an outage and getting your power restored.
(Information provided by SMUD)
Before a storm hits:
Become familiar with your service panel location and how to operate the main circuit breaker.
Prepare a basic emergency kit and store it in an accessible place. This kit should contain:
- Manual can opener
- Bottled water
- Battery operated clock
- Extra batteries
- Flashlight
Have a battery-operated radio or television to get news reports with estimated times that electricity will be restored.
Protect your household appliances and sensitive electronics from damaging power surges caused by wind and lightning storms.
If the Power Goes Out:
First, check to see if the lights are out in neighboring homes. If they are, chances are that you are part of a larger power outage. Turn off electrical appliances except one light as this lowers the initial demand for electricity and makes it easier for crews to restore electric service.
To Report A Power Outage:
For SMUD
1-888-456-SMUD (7683)
For PG&E
1-800-PGE-5000 or 1-800-743-5000
After dialing Customer Service and hearing the introduction, use these easy verbal responses:
1. Say "Outages" then confirm selection with "yes."
2. Say either "electric" or "gas" depending on the source of the outage.
3. Say your phone number associated with your account. If you do not know, say "I don't know."
4. Say your account number.
5. If you are unable to answer the steps above, you will be transferred to a customer service representative.
(Once your outage has been reported, you can call PG&E's Outage Information Line at 1-800-743-5002 to get a status report on your outage and the anticipated time your power will be turned back on.)
If Stormy Weather Knocks Down A Power Line:
- Call 911 immediately
- Assume the line is "engergized"; stay away and warn others to the same
- Do not remove fallen tree limbs or other debris from power lines. Tree limbs and other objects can conduct electricity that can shock anyone coming in contact with them
