If multiple homes in your neighborhood do not have lights, it’s likely that a power outage is affecting a large area of the community. As you wait for your electricity to be restored, CPS Energy recommends the following tips:
Have a flashlight and emergency kit ready. Use a battery-powered radio or an Internet-connected device (laptop or smartphone) for outage updates. Find outage information at www.cpsenergy.com or see our Facebook and Twitter sites.
Keep your CPS Energy account number and these phone numbers handy in case you need to report an outage: (210) 353-HELP (353-4357) or call toll-free (800) 870-1006 for rural areas.
Have a family emergency plan. Identify and be prepared to go to an alternate location in case of a power outage, especially if a member of the household has critical care needs.
Don't go near downed power lines! Treat all wires as if they are “live” (energized). Report damaged lines to CPS Energy immediately.
Limit phone usage. Depending on how widespread the outage is, phone lines and cell phone systems may become overloaded and limit emergency communications.
Keep at least one light turned on to help you realize when power has been restored.
Keep refrigerator or freezer doors closed to maintain the unit’s temperature. The USDA says a refrigerator will keep food safely cold for up to four hours if unopened. Discard refrigerated, perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, soft cheeses, milk, eggs, leftovers, and deli items if the power has been out for more than 4 hours). See USDA website
Exercise caution with candles as they are fire hazards.
Use caution when driving, as traffic signals may be disrupted. Also, during storm events, avoid low water crossings.
