Issaquah Highlands is not immune from power outages, as we all experienced in November. While outages can occur for a myriad of reasons, being prepared for such situations can make a significant difference in ensuring you family’s safety and comfort without electricity.
Consider the following steps when preparing for a power outage:
1. EMERGENCY KIT
Start by assembling an emergency kit that includes essential items such as flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, non-perishable food items, water, and basic first aid supplies. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the kit is located.
2. COMMUNICATION PLAN
Establish a communication plan with family members. Ensure everyone has a list of emergency contacts and designate a meeting point in case you are separated during an outage.
3. BACKUP POWER
Highlands Fiber Network’s system of generators and backup batteries ensure internet remains working during an outage. However, just because HFN’s network equipment is still up and running does not mean that your home network will continue working. Explore options for backup power sources, such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for essential devices. Ensure these are in good working condition and have sufficient fuel or charged batteries.
Keep these tips in mind during a power outage:
1. PRESERVE FOOD
Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain the cold temperature as long as possible. A fully packed freezer can typically keep food frozen for about 48 hours, while a half-full freezer will last 24 hours.
2. CONSERVE BATTERY POWER
Use flashlights instead of candles for lighting to reduce the risk of fire. Conserve battery power by turning off unnecessary electronic devices and lights.
3. NEIGHBORHOOD COOPERATION
Check on your neighbors, especially those who may need assistance, such as the elderly or individuals with disabilities. Collaborate with neighbors to share resources and support each other during the outage.
Remember to practice patience and kindness for the employees working to restore the power—they all have families, and their job is dangerous.
If your power goes out, be sure to stay calm and check to see if your neighbors are also affected to determine the extent of the outage. If it seems isolated to your home, check the circuit breaker and fuse box for tripped breakers or blown fuses.
Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is responsible for managing power outages and electrical safety in our community, among other services. In the event of an outage, the energy utility company is committed to early alerts and quick responses. Download the myPSE app to track and report outages, check status and get estimated restoration times, or visit the outage map at pse.com/outagemap.
