Power outages can happen anytime, and while many are resolved quickly, some last for hours or even days.. The ones that last a while, however, are usually caused by weather damaging power lines and equipment, or extreme temperatures overloading the system.
While you can’t prevent outages, you can prepare and limit their impact on your business. Here are some best practices to follow during a power outage:
1. Check your circuit breaker panel
There’s a chance that the outage is only affecting your property. You can confirm this by checking neighbouring businesses or your breaker panel. If everyone else is without power and nothing seems off about your fuse box, then it’s likely a wider outage.
2. Check the wires leading to your building
Stay at least four meters away from downed power lines and assume all lines are live. Electricity can travel through the ground and nearby objects. Make sure all employees know this safety rule.
3. Call your power provider
Notify them promptly to speed up resolution. If they’re already aware, ask for an estimated restoration time. Save their number offline for easy access during a blackout, as you may not have access to the internet to locate these details.
Additional power outage tips
Here are some additional steps you can take to help your business recover from a blackout:
- Let there be (alternative) light: Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.
- Turn off electronics: Turning off anything that utilizes electricity minimizes the risk of an electric shock when power returns.
- Keep freezers closed: Food can stay frozen for up to 24-36 hours during a blackout if the freezer doors remain shut.
- Tune into the radio: Battery-powered radios are a reliable way to receive updates on restoration progress.
- Use a backup generator safely: A backup generator can keep key systems running, such as alarms or carbon monoxide detectors. (For the latter, ensure you have spare batteries available.)
Modern Preparedness Tips
- Create an emergency kit: Include water, first aid, flashlights, batteries, and backup chargers.
- Have a communication plan: Establish internal and external channels for updates, and ensure all staff is aware of this plan.
- Protect your data: Use cloud backups and UPS systems for critical equipment.
- Consider business continuity planning: Remote work strategies and emergency protocols can reduce downtime.
Whether electricity is lost for minutes, hours, or even days, how you prepare and respond to a power outage can make a significant difference in protecting your employees, assets, and bottom line. The steps above can help keep your business safer and more resilient during an outage.
Protect your business with insurance
Power outages can disrupt operations, damage equipment, and impact revenue. The right insurance can cover emergency costs, equipment repairs, and lost income. To learn more about how you can protect your business, visit our Business Insurance page today.