View the outage web map below for outage information. Click here for a full screen version.
Be ready in case bad weather causes outages.
Have batteries handy for flashlights and a radio.
Stay away from downed lines or tree limbs on power lines.
Turn off all lights but one. Unplug appliances and lower the thermostat. When the power comes back on, wait 10 min before turning on heat to reduce load on system.
See if your neighbors are without power. If not, the problem may be in your service panel.
Wear warm clothing.
Pull drapes to save heat.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.
Remember, call us first 509-884-7191 or report through your SmartHub App. We want to get your power turned on quickly and safely.
Portable Generators
Before purchasing or installing a portable generator for use during a power outage, consider these important safety issues:
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- BACKFEED–Plugging a portable generator into an electrical outlet in your house could cause backfeed. This occurs when electricity from the generator flows through the home’s wiring, out through the electric meter, and passes through the utility’s transformer, energizing the utility service lines. Backfeed can injure or kill a utility worker who is repairing a power line!
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- TRANSFER SWITCH–When operating a portable generator, any effort to use home electrical appliances that are hard-wired to the wiring in a house requires the use of a transfer switch. The transfer switch will mechanically disconnect the household’s circuit from the utility’s power supply system. A transfer switch MUST be used to avoid backfeed into the utility’s power system and is required by electric code.
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- INSTALLATION–Electric code requires that a licensed electrician install stationary generators that are permanently wired to the household’s electrical system. The owner of the generator must acquire an electrical permit, and the unit must be inspected.