Have an emergency kit.

Your home should have an emergency kit with enough supplies to support everyone in your household for three days. Here are some things you should have stored:

• Flashlights and extra batteries.
• Portable charger for your smartphones.
• Battery or hand-crank-operated radio.
• Bottled drinking water and non-perishable, ready-to-eat food for everyone in your family.
• First-aid kit, medications, prescriptions and sanitation supplies.
• Have extra car keys, credit cards, and cash on hand.

There are several other items to include. Check out this emergency kit checklist for more information.

When the power goes out

When there is a power outage, report the incident to the local utility company in your area. They’re responsible for maintaining and repairing the power equipment in your neighbourhood, including power lines, poles and meters. They might not know that something has gone wrong, or they might be able to provide you with more information about the outage.

Here are some other steps you should take in a power outage:

• Turn off any electrical equipment. If you had electronics on before the power went out, turn those off and unplug them. There could be a power surge when the power is turned back on, which can damage your devices. Keep one light switched on so you’ll know as soon as the power is restored.
• Stay informed. If you don’t get the information from Alberta Emergency Alerts, tune into the radio or search for updated information on your smartphone.
• Keep the fridge and freezer shut! Don’t open your freezer or fridge unless it is absolutely necessary. A full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours if the door remains closed.
• Find a warm place to wait, if necessary. The home will get chilly if the power goes out in the winter. This can be uncomfortable for anyone, but it can be dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with certain medical conditions. If anyone in your household is at risk, and it is safe to do so, find a climate-controlled public space where they can wait for the power to come back on.

For more information on hazards in Alberta, contact your municipality or community's Director of Emergency Management or the Alberta Emergency Management Agency at 780-422-9000 (Dial 310-0000 for toll-free access outside Edmonton). You can also visit the AEMA website.