Get Prepared For a Power Outage
Get Prepared For a Power Outage
January 12, 2026 Energy Efficiency, Home
While utilities work to ensure you have safe and reliable power, power outages can still occur. Outages might be the result of unexpected events like inclement weather or a Public Safety Power Shutoff. You can’t always predict an outage, but there are steps you can take to stay safe, comfortable, and informed.
Before You Report An Outage
Check whether nearby homes also have power.
If other homes still have power, check your circuit breaker to see if it has tripped.
If multiple homes are affected, contact your utility to report the outage:
Prepare Ahead of Time
Make sure your contact information is up to date with your utility.
Sign up for outage alerts through your preferred method of communication (phone, email or app depending on your utility).
If you or someone in the home is medically dependent on power, complete a medical certificate form with Portland General Electric or Pacific Power to get extra support in the event of an outage.
If inclement weather is forecasted, charge all your devices and light sources, including extra power banks and laptops, which can also be used for charging.
During a Power Outage:
Never go near or touch a downed power line. Lines may still be energized and extremely dangerous.
Heating your home to a higher temperature can heat walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture, which can radiate some heat in an outage.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain safe food temperatures.
Add bagged or block ice or move your food to a cooler with ice.
If it's below 40°F outside, placing food in a cooler or box outside will also keep food cold. Just be sure to animal-proof the box and keep an eye out for rising outdoor temperatures.
If you purchase food, buy items that do not require electricity to cook or keep cold.
Windows are weak points in homes for heat to escape. Keep heat indoors by hanging heavy curtains or blankets over windows.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk. Never use a charcoal grill or portable gas-powered generator inside your home, garage, or carport. If you use a gas stove, keep in mind your ventilation system will not be operating if it’s electrical.
If possible, check on elderly or impaired neighbors to see if they need help.
