From lightning storms to fallen tree branches, many factors can disrupt the electrical grid providing power to your home. While most of the time, this is an inconvenience, there are some cases in which the loss of electricity can have much more profound consequences. With that in mind, here are a few steps you can take to prepare for a power outage so that you can keep your family safe and comfortable until electric services are fully restored.   

3 Steps to Prepare for Electric Service Disruptions 

1. Make your family's health a priority.

If you or anyone in your home is on oxygen or uses a life-supporting device, make sure your electric company knows so that they can flag your account.  Special attention will be given to your area if possible, and you will receive updates as work progresses. In addition, ask your oxygen supplier about delivering backup bottles that can be utilized in times of emergency.

2. Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector

If the power goes out during the winter, it will most likely shut down the furnace supplying heat to the home. While fireplaces and gas stoves can be useful in these circumstances, make sure you also have a carbon monoxide detector installed to monitor harmful emissions from these heat sources.

3. Invest in a Backup Generator

If blackouts are frequent in your area, and you worry about your family being left in the dark and the cold, consider purchasing a backup generator. This way, you can still power some appliances until electric service is up and running. A licensed electrician can install the system so that it operates safely for both you and the linemen working on the power lines during an outage. 

If you need to report an electric outage in Rio Arriba, Sante Fe, Sandoval, McKinley, or San Juan, NM, reach out to Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative by calling the outage hotline at 1-877-753-0095. To learn more about electric service distribution in Hernandez or nearby communities, call 1-505-753-2105. You can also visit them online or on Facebook for outage updates and other useful information.