Prepare for Power Outages

While Wright-Hennepin works diligently to ensure reliable power, unforeseen events can sometimes lead to outages. Being prepared is key to minimizing disruption and ensuring your safety and comfort. This page provides essential steps and resources to help you and your family be ready before an outage occurs, ensuring you have the support and information you need.

Pre-Outage Checklist

Being proactive can make a significant difference during a power outage. Use this checklist to ensure your household is ready.

Stay Weather-Aware:
Monitor local weather forecasts regularly, especially during severe weather seasons.

Identify Critical Needs:
Know what appliances and medical equipment rely on electricity and plan for backup power. Submit our Critical Needs Form.

Test Generators:
If you have a generator, ensure it's in good working condition and you know how to operate it safely.

Charge Devices:
Keep cell phones, laptops, and other essential battery-powered devices fully charged.

Fill Vehicle Fuel Tanks:
A full tank ensures you have transportation and can be a power source for charging small devices if needed.

Withdraw Cash:
ATMs won't work without power, so having some cash on hand can be helpful.

Secure Outdoor Items:
During storms, secure loose outdoor items that could become hazards.

Update Your Contact Information:
Contact a member services representative to update your contact information so you receive outage notifications from the MyMeter tool in your WH Account and can report an outage.

Important Notice for Critical Medical Needs

If anyone in your household relies on electrically powered life-support systems or essential medical equipment, it is crucial to be on Wright-Hennepin's Critical Medical Needs list. This helps us be aware of your needs, though it does not guarantee immediate restoration. Always have a backup power source plan.

Learn More About Critical Medical Needs

Build an Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit is crucial. Store these items in an easily accessible location:

Flashlights:
At least one working flashlight per family member.

Extra Batteries:
Ample supply for flashlights, radios, and other battery-powered devices.

Battery-Powered Radio:
For receiving emergency broadcasts and updates.

Non-Perishable Food:
A 3-day supply of food that requires no cooking or refrigeration.

Bottled Water:
A 3-day supply, at least one gallon per person per day.

First Aid Kit:
Fully stocked with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Manual Can Opener:
For canned goods in your emergency food supply.

Wrench or Pliers:
To turn off utilities if necessary.

Matches or Lighter:
For candles (use with extreme caution) or gas stoves (if safe).

Whistle:
To signal for help.

Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags, & Plastic Ties:
For personal sanitation.

Download Printable Emergency Kit Checklist

Weather Awareness Tools

Stay informed about potential severe weather that could lead to outages.

Generator Safety is Paramount

Generators can be life-savers during outages, but they must be operated safely to prevent serious injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning or electrocution. Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Learn More About Generators