Power Outage

Be Prepared for a Power Outage

A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. An outage can cause a disruption to your daily life, so it is important to plan ahead and be prepared BEFORE an outage happens.  There are several types of outages that can occur; maintenance, repair, Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), state-wide rotating outage, and outages caused by a major event such as a traffic collision causing a downed powerline or a major wildland fire. Some are planned and some are not.  Not matter the cause it is important to know what to do in the event of a power outage.  

Always Report a Power Outage, and never assume someone else reported it.  To Report a Power Outage , visit www.sce.com or call 800-611-1911.   To check on the status of a power outage in Chino Hills, visit Southern California Edison Outage Center online. 

Handy SCE QuickLinks and Phone Numbers

A Power Outage Will Cause a Disruption

A power outage may also disrupt communications, water, and transportation. It may cause the closure of retail businesses, restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, ATM's, banks, and other services. Facing an outage without planning ahead could leave you unprepared to face an extended outage. You wouldn't want an outage to prevent your use of some medical devices, and even the possibility of having your food spoil.

It is imperative that you do all you can to be prepared in the event of an unexpected power outage.  When preparing for an outage, you should consider whether or not you want to have a generator on hand or even employ the use of s transfer switch for using a generator to power your home.  Learning all you can about these topics are critical to not only your preparedness efforts but for safety as well! Learn more:  Understanding Backup Generation, The Power of Being Prepared, Generators, Transfer Switch for Generator Connection

Preparing Ahead of Time

When power outages occur, it's always good to be prepared. Whether it's a maintenance outage or a blackout from an unexpected storm, here are some tips to help you prepare for outages and lessen the impact until the lights come back on.

Southern California Edison Outage Tips
Protect Yourself During a Power Outage (FEMA)

Some Simple Tips and A Few Supplies to Have On Hand

Preparing for an outage is easier than you think. Stocking up on a few supplies and planning ahead can help you stay safe and comfortable.

  • Keep important phone numbers (fire department, paramedics, police, hospital, doctor, relatives, etc.) by the phone
  • Place flashlights in handy locations, such as near the phone or by your night stand
  • Keep a stock of batteries for your flashlights, a portable radio, and any other devices you need
  • Install surge protectors to help safeguard electronic equipment
  • Familiarize yourself with your home's utility boxes (electricity, water, and gas) and how to turn them off; keep the proper tools to do so handy
  • Frequently back up important work and files on your computer
  • Learn how to manually open your automatic garage doors or gates
  • Keep the gas tank in at least one car half full at all times
  • If you have a portable gas generator, identify an outdoor location where you can safely use it during a power outage - never use it indoors
  • Make a safety preparedness plan for your family, including a list and location of the above items and a plan for how pets will be cared for
  • Be prepared to meet the special needs of any infant, elderly, or disabled people in your household
  • Be prepared to purchase ice for your family and place perishable items in a cooler as necessary