What to do if the power goes out?

When the power goes out VEC’s goal is to restore it quickly and safely. Below are recommended safety measures for our members during outages.

First steps to take when the power goes out

• Check to see if your neighbors’ lights are on. If they are, then the problem could be in your home.
• Locate your fuse box or breaker panel to be sure that all fuses are intact or that the breakers are all in the on position. If they are all set, try turning on and off both the main power switch on the fuse box and the main breaker switch on a breaker box.

Still no power?

• Call Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) at 1-800-832-2667 to report the outage and be prepared to provide the following information:
  1. The name on the account for the location of the outage
  2. The account number if you know it
  3. A telephone number where you can be contacted
  4. The nature of the outage, how long you’ve been out and/or anything you may have seen or heard.

Stay safe

• Keep away from downed power lines and debris that is resting on a power line.
• Turn off major appliances to help avoid a sudden surge of power when service is restored.
• Leave one or two lights on as a signal for when power is restored.

Be prepared

Being prepared for outages is important, especially during weather related outages where damage can be widespread and repairs may be complex. Having a plan and an emergency outage kit are good ideas for everyone to consider.  Also:

• If a member of your household is dependent on electricity for life support, be sure to have portable oxygen tanks, backup power and/or a temporary relocation plan.
• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives.
• Outage kits should be kept in an accessible location, and should provide for basic needs.

Items should include:

• Battery powered flashlight(s)
• Portable radio
• Extra batteries
• Battery powered alarm clock
• Dry and warm clothing
• Sleeping bags and/or blankets
• Bottled water
• Foods which can be consumed with little to no preparation
• A phone that does not need electricity to work