Call
613-432-4884
Email
[email protected]
Address
B-499 O'Brien Rd, Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z3

Outage Safety

With climate change bringing more extreme weather to our city, it’s putting added pressure on the systems we all rely on. We’re encouraging everyone in our community to stay informed, look out for one another, and be prepared in case of emergencies.

Before a Power Outage
Be Ready: Build Your 72-Hour Emergency Kit

In the event of an emergency or power outage, it’s important to be prepared to care for yourself and your household for at least 72 hours. Here’s how to get started:

Essentials to Include:
  • Flashlight and Radio: Choose battery-powered or hand-crank models. Don’t forget extra batteries if needed.
  • Non-perishable Food: Stock items that don’t require cooking or can be eaten cold.
  • First Aid Kit: Make sure it’s well-stocked and up to date.
  • Water Supply: Have enough drinking water for each person for three days (about 4 litres per person per day).
Stay Connected:
  • Keep at least one landline phone (not cordless), or make sure you can charge your cell phone during a power outage to contact emergency services.
Special Considerations:
  • If you rely on power for medical equipment, make sure you have a back-up power source or a plan to relocate to a facility that can support you.
  • Residents with mobility disabilities who depend on elevators should inform building management ahead of time about their needs during an evacuation.
Home Safety Measures:
  • Install battery-powered smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, or make sure hardwired units have backup power. Test them regularly.
  • If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned every fall to prevent dangerous creosote buildup.
  • If you use a generator, ensure it’s connected through an approved transfer panel and switch installed by a qualified electrician. Improper connections can pose serious risks to utility crews and your neighborhood.
  • Install a backup power supply for your sump pump to prevent flooding during outages.
  • If you see damaged wires connected to your home, contact a licensed electrical contractor—don’t attempt repairs yourself.

For more tips and detailed emergency planning resources, visit the Government of Canada’s Power Outages brochure.

  • Install battery-powered smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, or make sure hardwired units have backup power. Test them regularly.
  • If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned every fall to prevent dangerous creosote buildup.
  • If you use a generator, ensure it’s connected through an approved transfer panel and switch installed by a qualified electrician. Improper connections can pose serious risks to utility crews and your neighborhood.
  • Install a backup power supply for your sump pump to prevent flooding during outages.
  • If you see damaged wires connected to your home, contact a licensed electrical contractor—don’t attempt repairs yourself.
For more tips and detailed emergency planning resources, visit the Government of Canada’s Power Outages brochure.
In the event of a power outage, taking the right steps can protect your home and your loved ones. Here’s what you need to know: Reporting Outages
  • Report outages or downed power lines: Call our 24/7 outage line: 613-432-4884
Protect Your Home and Equipment
  • Turn off all lights, unplug appliances and electronics, and lower your thermostat to help prevent power surges when service is restored.
  • If your sump pump doesn’t have a backup power source, move valuables out of the basement to protect against flooding.
Food Safety During an Outage
  • Keep fridge and freezer doors closed:
    • Freezers: Food can last 24–48 hours
    • Refrigerators: Food can last up to 4 hours
  • For detailed guidance, visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website.
Using Heat and Light Safely
  • If using a fireplace, make sure chimneys are clear of creosote and debris. Never leave fires unattended.
  • Use flashlights instead of candles when possible. If you must use candles:
    • Place them in a non-combustible container
    • Keep away from curtains, carpets, and flammable items
    • Never leave them unattended
  • Close interior doors to keep heat contained in one area.
Outdoor Equipment Only
  • Camp stoves, charcoal, and gas barbecues must be used outdoors only—never indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.
  • Generators should always be used outside and away from windows and doors. Operate in a well-ventilated area and follow all manufacturer instructions.
    • Plug appliances directly into the generator using CSA-approved extension cords.
  • Extended Power Outages in Winter
    Take extra steps to prevent damage during a long outage:
    • Turn off power to your water heater
    • Shut off the main water valve (usually in the basement)
    • Protect exposed pipes, valves, and meters with blankets or insulation
    • Open all taps to drain the water system and flush toilets to empty them
    • Drain water from appliances like dishwashers and washing machines
If You Need Assistance
  • Stay at home as long as it is safe, warm, and you can feed yourself.
  • In a declared emergency, the Town of Renfrew will open Emergency Reception Centres where you can get:
    • Warmth or cooling
    • Food and water
    • Up-to-date emergency information
  • Locations will be announced on local emergency radio and TV broadcasts.
  • If any wires connected to your home are damaged, contact a licensed electrical contractor to handle repairs safely.
  • Never enter a flooded basement unless you’re certain the power is completely disconnected.
  • Do not use flooded appliances, electrical outlets, breaker panels, or switches until a qualified electrician has inspected and cleaned them.

Reconnecting Power Safely

  • If your main power switch was turned off, you can turn it back on—but first unplug sensitive appliances like electric heaters, TVs, microwaves, and computers to protect them from power surges.
  • Give your electrical system time to stabilize:
    • Start by turning up your thermostat to restore heating.
    • Wait a few minutes, then reconnect your fridge and freezer.
    • Wait 10 to 15 more minutes before plugging in other appliances or tools.

Restoring Water and Checking Food

  • If you shut off your main water valve, reopen it carefully.
  • Ensure your hot water heater is full before turning the power back on to avoid damaging the unit.
  • Check all food in your fridge, freezer, and cupboards. If anything looks or smells off, when in doubt—throw it out.

Questions?

Contact our Customer Service team at 613-432-4884 or email [email protected].