The spring season means warmer weather, sunshine, blooming flowers and people trading pants for shorts. Another occurrence of spring: storms. Lots of them. These storms are great to help give our plants water and keep us out of a drought. On the negative side, sometimes these storms can cause temporary power outages. To make the situation easier and as safe as possible, here’s some information on what you can do during a short-term power outage.

First things first, check out the window to see if your neighbors have power. If they do, check your breaker box to see if any switches have flipped. If your neighbors are without power too, it’s safe to say that there’s a classic power failure. Most of the time, if the power goes out, it returns quickly (from less than a minute to 30 minutes). However, if it doesn’t, report it! Chances are, your Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP) is already working toward a quick fix, but reporting it can help them determine how many homes are affected in each area. If you have medical supplies dependent on electricity, absolutely make a phone call, so your home can be a top priority.

When the grid turns back on, there is a surge of electricity to many different sources. Multiple outlets in multiple homes. Sometimes, this can put a great deal of pressure on the grid when it comes back on, resulting in a blown fuse to high-power devices or older homes. To help relieve grid strain from the surge and keep your electrical components and their appliances in good working order, unplug until power is restored. This could be the TV, lamps, microwaves, or kitchen appliances other than the fridge. Do be sure to leave a few things plugged in, such as a lamp, to signal when the power is live again. When the power is back on wait a few minutes before plugging in devices again.

It’s also important to be mindful of the refrigerator and freezer. Do not open the doors during a power outage so the cool air will stay inside as long as possible, keeping the food at safe temperatures. If the power outage turns into more than short term, check out this information from the National Center for Home Food Preservation to determine what should be tossed, kept or eaten immediately. It is a good idea to have an emergency preparedness kit that has water and shelf stable food, plus batteries and flash lights, in the event that the outage is prolonged.

For the most part, use your time during a power outage to enjoy the time unplugged. We live in such a technological age that sometimes a power outage is the only way we can really separate ourselves from our phones, the TV or the computer. You could go outside for a walk, play games with your family or read a book or magazine. It’s an opportunity to take a break, and everyone deserves a break.

To report power outages in your area, you can call your utility company:

• AEP – Texas Central Service Area: 866-223-8508
• AEP – Texas North Service Area: 866-223-8508
• CenterPoint Energy Service Area: 800-332-7143
• Oncor Electric Delivery Service Area: 888-313-4747
• Oncor Electric Delivery – West Service Area: 888-313-4747
• Sharyland Utilities, L.P. Service Area: 956-668-9551
• Texas – New Mexico Power Service Area: 888-866-7456
• Lubbock Power & Light Service Area: 806-775-2509

We hope you enjoyed this blog. At Cirro Energy, we always offer convenient and easy home solutions. Check back every month for new blogs on helpful electricity tips and easy-living lifestyle advice. To compare and see the Cirro advantage, check out our residential comparison page and make the switch today. Cirro also provides protection for your electricity system, click here for more information. Cirro Energy, the easy choice for people who like easy choices.

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