Outage Preparation

An example of an outage preparation kit with items including a radio, bottled water, battery-operated flashlights

View our Outage Preparation Document

Niagara Peninsula Energy is committed to providing safe and reliable electricity distribution services. Despite our best efforts, power outages and electrical emergencies can occur without warning. We encourage you to plan ahead and be prepared.

Local emergency responders also recommend that residents prepare and plan to be self-sufficient for 72 hours in an emergency situation. Keep our 1-877-270-3938 toll free number line handy to report power outages, downed powerlines and electrical emergencies.

Before a Power Outage

Have an emergency kit on hand. This kit should contain:

  • Cellphone or cordless phone
  • Battery operated flashlight
  • Candles, matches or lighter
  • Extra blankets, hats, gloves and warm clothing
  • First Aid kit
  • Bottled water and non-perishable food items
  • Manual can opener
  • Disposable tableware & cutlery

You should also:

  • Test your smoke alarms to make sure they work. Make sure your home has a battery powered smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector on every level.
  • Ensure there is always sufficient fuel in your vehicle to meet possible emergency travel needs.
  • Install surge protection devices on sensitive equipment such as televisions, computers, mobile devices and microwaves to help protect them from surges when power is restored.
  • If someone in your household uses life support equipment, it is important to make NPEI aware. You should also make arrangements for a back-up power supply or transportation to another facility in the event of a power outage.
  • If you have a garage door opener, familiarize yourself with the manual operation of the unit so that in an emergency you can get out of the garage quickly and safely.
  • If you are considering purchasing a standby portable generator, the Electrical Safety Authority, which regulates the safe use of electrical equipment in Ontario, cautions consumers contemplating the purchase of portable
    standby generators to do some homework first. Go to www.esasafe.com

During A Power Outage

  • Turn off the main electrical switch.
  • Ensure all stovetop elements are in the off position.
  • Turn off or unplug equipment to prevent damage should there be a power surge when power is restored.
  • Keep away from downed powerlines. If you see a downed powerline, contact NPEI immediately.
  • Check the NPEI Outage Map for updates

After a Power Outage

  • Plug in only the most essential appliances. Waiting 10-15 minutes before plugging in and turning on equipment, such as refrigerators and air conditioning units gives the power system time to stabilize.
  • Check to make sure the freezer and refrigerator are working and what food can be refrozen.
  • Turning on an outdoor light helps to notify patrolling NPEI crews that the power has been restored.
  • Restock your emergency kit and return it to its regular storage place.