Power outages

Power outages can happen for many reasons, often linked to extreme weather. Excessive heat can strain the power grid and increase fire risk, prompting a safety shutoff. Winter storms can saturate soils, causing trees to fall and bring down power lines. Whatever the cause, outages can catch us by surprise — but there are steps you can take to be prepared.

Stay Informed. Sign up for AlertMarin. While most outages are unplanned, AlertMarin may be used to notify you of significant outages expected to last more than 24 hours. Utility providers may also use customer contact information to send alerts directly.

Build a Stay Box. We call it a “box,” but it doesn’t matter what you use. The goal is to keep your supplies in one place, like a closet or corner of the garage. A Stay Box should have enough essentials for you and your family to stay safe at home for 3–5 days.

Make a Plan. Develop a plan with your household so everyone knows what to do before, during, and after an outage.

More Tips

• Keep phones and backup batteries charged. Have extra batteries, portable chargers, or a power bank ready.
• Take inventory of items you rely on that need electricity.
• Have flashlights for every household member.
• Freeze a few plastic water bottles and move them to your refrigerator during an outage to help keep it cold longer.
• If you or loved ones rely on electric medical or assistive devices, notify your utility and enroll in a medical baseline program for extra support.
• Marin Center for Independent Living offers a Powered and Prepared program to help older adults and people with disabilities stay safe in emergencies. 

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Eat perishable foods first, frozen foods second, and non-perishables last.
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to prevent damage from power surges.
• In hot conditions, close curtains, cover windows, and limit opening doors.
• In cool conditions, wear layers and keep doors and windows closed.
• Use fireplaces safely. Never use charcoal, gasoline, or propane to start one.
• If using a generator, use it outside only and keep it more than 20 feet away from your home, doors, and windows.
• Check the Public Emergency Portal to see if heating or cooling centers are open nearby.
• Stay calm — clear thinking helps you make safer choices. 

Generators can be helpful during outages, but improper use can cause serious hazards.

• Use generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. CO is odorless, colorless, and deadly to people and pets.
• Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.
• Connect appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
• Let the generator cool before refueling. Spilled fuel on hot parts can ignite.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.