Duke Power Outage: What To Do When the Lights Go Out?

A sudden power outage can disrupt our lives, turning our comfortable homes into dark and potentially hazardous environments. Whether it's a flickering lightbulb signaling an impending outage or a complete blackout catching you off guard, knowing what to do is crucial for staying safe and minimizing inconvenience. If you're a Duke Power customer, understanding their outage reporting process and following some simple guidelines can make all the difference during these unexpected events.

The first step when the lights go out is to determine if the outage is isolated to your home or affects your neighbors. Checking your breaker box for tripped circuits is a good initial step. If your breakers are fine, a quick look outside or a call to a neighbor can confirm a wider outage. If it's a widespread issue, promptly report the outage to Duke Power. You can do this through their website, mobile app, or by calling their customer service line. Providing accurate information about your location helps them pinpoint the problem and restore power efficiently.

Once you've reported the outage, it's time to focus on safety and preserving what you can. Unplug electronic devices and appliances to protect them from potential power surges when electricity is restored. Leave one light switched on to alert you when the power comes back. Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer unless absolutely necessary to conserve cold air and prevent food spoilage. If the outage occurs during extreme weather, consider gathering blankets, warm clothing, and emergency supplies like flashlights and battery-powered radios.

Communication is key during a power outage. Keep your phone charged as much as possible, but avoid unnecessary usage to conserve battery. Duke Power often provides updates on estimated restoration times through their website and app. Stay informed and follow their recommendations for safety precautions.

If you rely on medical equipment requiring electricity, ensure you have a backup plan in place. This could involve a generator, a fully charged battery backup, or pre-arranged accommodations with a facility that has power. Inform Duke Power about your critical medical needs when reporting the outage so they can prioritize your restoration.

While waiting for power to be restored, resist the temptation to use candles or open flames for lighting, as these pose a significant fire hazard. Opt for battery-operated flashlights or lanterns instead. If you have a gas stove, use it with caution, ensuring proper ventilation. Never use a gas stove or oven for heating your home.

Food safety is another important consideration during prolonged outages. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Discard perishable food that has been exposed to temperatures above 40°F for more than two hours. If the outage extends beyond a day, consider using coolers with ice to store essential refrigerated items.

Being prepared for power outages can greatly lessen their impact. Develop a home emergency kit that includes essential supplies like flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, bottled water, and non-perishable food items. Familiarize yourself with Duke Power's outage reporting procedures and stay informed about their communication channels. By taking these proactive steps, you can navigate power outages safely and efficiently, minimizing disruption to your life.