Every resident should learn to be prepared for a power outage. Although power outages may only last a few hours, individuals and organizations should be prepared to be without assistance for 72 hours or longer.

To assist individuals in preparing for a power outage, local emergency managers are joined by the County of Santa Clara, American Red Cross, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and PG&E in providing information on what to do during a power outage.

• Report Downed Power Lines. Stay at least 10 feet away from downed power lines as electricity might still be flowing through the lines.
  
• Sensitive Appliances. Protect appliances from possible power surges when electricity is restored. Unplug appliances and computers, if possible, and turn off non-essential lights.
  
• Keep Food Cold. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to help prevent food spoilage. Refrigerated foods should remain safe to eat for four hours. Food in a closed freezer can stay frozen for up to two days.
  
• Water. Discontinue non-essential water usage. Do not drink cloudy or dirty water. Don’t be alarmed if chlorine level is higher than normal. Notify water officials of low or no water pressure.
  
• Stay Cool. During hot days, stay cool indoors and drink plenty of fluids.
  
• Check on Neighbors. Check on elderly or medically dependent neighbors.
  
• Generator Options. Establish independent, short-term power supplies such as generators or battery- operated devices. Instead, plug appliances directly into generator.
  
• Monitor Radio and Television. Monitor battery- operated radio or television for current information on the outage.
  
• Telephones. Use telephones that do not depend on electricity. Cordless phones will not function during an outage.
  
• Garage Doors & Security Gates. Know how to manually release and open any electric doors, like garage doors or security gates.
  
• Anticipate Traffic Delays. Intersections should be treated as four-way stops when traffic lights are out.