Power outage

Before

• Be sure your emergency kit includes a flashlight, extra batteries, and cash.
• Keep your mobile phone charged.
• Have alternative charging methods for your phone and other devices.
• Install surge protectors and/or battery back-up systems for computers.
• If you have a car, keep the gas tank at least half full. (Gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps.)

During

• To report a power outage:
  • Seattle: Call Seattle City Light at 206-684-3000 (customer service) or 206-684-7400 (recorded hotline).
  • Bothell: Call Puget Sound Energy at 1-888-225-5773 or complete an online report.
  • Tacoma: Power Outages – Tacoma Public Utilities (mytpu.org)
• If possible use battery-operated light sources such as flashlights or light sticks.
• Never use gas ovens, gas ranges, barbecues or propane heaters for indoor heating. Doing so can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Limit the number of times you open the refrigerator and freezer to help keep food cold for longer.
• Turn off as many lights and other electrical items as possible. This will help eliminate potential fire hazards and reduce the power draw when service is restored.
• Unplug computers and other sensitive equipment to protect them from power surges when service is restored.
• Stay away from downed power lines and sagging trees with broken limbs.
• If driving, proceed with caution and treat intersections with non-working traffic lights as a four-way stop.