Power outages can occur due to high winds or ice storms that damage power lines and equipment, or when there is an overuse of electricity due to a heat wave or extreme cold event. When there is a power outage, you may lose lighting, refrigeration for food storage, running water, heat or air conditioning.

View the following resources on how to prepare your home before and during a power outage:

• Make a 7 to 10 day emergency food kit
• Before, during, and after a power outage

During and after a power outage, food and water can be affected. Learn how to keep your food and water safe:

• Food safety after a flood or power outage
• Drinking water safety after a flood or power outage

If you have a business that has been affected by power outages:

• Food Premise Operators - can refer to the Food Safety & Disposal After A Power Outage fact sheet or call Health Connection to speak with a public health inspector at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.
• Small Drinking Water System Operators - if your system experiences any extended period without power, call Health Connection to speak with a public health inspector at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.