Snow storm and high winds happen frequently resulting in power outages from trees coming down on the lines. Downed trees are the most common cause, but not the only reason for power outages. The power company tries very hard to maintain service, however, the severe nature of Alaska’s weather means an outage may last days.

It is important to remember that most furnaces and heating systems, and water wells need power to operate. Thus, it is important to have stored water and a back-up, non electrical auxiliary heating source for when the power does go out.

If your neighborhood experiences a power outage:

• Turn off and unplug appliances, televisions and computers. If the power surges before being re-connected, the surge may damage your electrical equipment. Leave one light on in the house or building to indicate when power has been restored.
• Avoid using candles, as they are fire hazards. Use battery operated lights.
• Install an auxiliary heating source such as a wood stove or manual ignition natural gas stove. Make sure that your heater is safe for indoor use and does not produce carbon monoxide which can kill you.
• Auxiliary generators must be set up outside and be professionally connected to the house wiring. Improper connections can produce back surges and cause fires and damages to the regular electrical utility equipment. Generators must be used outside due to their exhaust, and never inside a home, attached garage or where people might be exposed to the toxic carbon monoxide gas in the generator’s exhaust.
• Do NOT use a gas cooking stove for heat because it too produces toxic carbon monoxide which may poison the air and kill you.
• Have enough food which does not need cooking for at least one week.
• See  Food  to learn about food safety when your refrigerator’s power is off.
• When driving, traffic signals which are not lit should be treated as a stop sign.