Power Outages and Your Business

Have a business emergency/continuity plan.

• Determine the processes and equipment that would be affected by a power outage: electrical equipment such as computers, security or alarm systems, elevators, as well as lighting, heating, ventilation.
• Maintain an inventory of all equipment used by your business. Prepare a list of equipment that will need to be turned off during an outage and then reset when power is restored.
• Determine the impact of service disruption.
• Back up computer data frequently and store the information in a secure off-site location.
• Make sure computers and other electronics are plugged into surge protectors.
• Test your backup battery systems, emergency lighting, phone, security and fire protection systems regularly.

Obtain an alternate power source.

• Use standby or backup power sources for emergency power.

Have emergency lighting ready.

• Use battery-operated light sources (flashlights or glow sticks). Do not use candles due to the risk of fire.
• Consider installing an emergency lighting system.

Establish shelter locations on your property.

• In the event that shelter-in-place measures are needed, have enough room for all employees, any customers or suppliers who may be at your business during the situation.
• Stock the shelter with emergency supplies (e.g., flashlights, battery powered radio, first aid kit, food, water, and blankets).

Prepare your employees.

• Inform your employees of the business emergency plan; review it with them regularly.
• Identify employees with special needs who may need assistance if you need to evacuate.

Make plans regarding customers.

• Determine the likelihood of customers being present if a power outage situation occurs.
• Have an emergency plan for customers; review it with employees regularly.

Stay informed.

• Listen to your battery powered radio for situation developments.

Backup power.

• Use standby or backup power sources for emergency power.
• Only use generators in well-ventilated areas. Generators are a major cause of fatal carbon monoxide poisoning, which can cause loss of consciousness and death.
• The most common symptoms are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

Equipment safety.

• Unplug or turn off all electrical equipment to prevent damage from electrical surges or spikes when power is eventually restored.