What should I do in case of a power outage?

In the event of a power outage, there are several important steps one can take to ensure safety and comfort. First, it is advisable to check if the outage is local or widespread. This can be done by assessing the status of neighbors and checking devices such as a mobile phone or a battery-powered radio for updates on the situation. If it appears to be a localized outage, one may want to examine the home’s circuit breaker to see if a fuse has blown or if a breaker needs to be reset. It is also prudent to keep flashlights, candles, and a battery-powered radio accessible in case of an extended power outage. Keeping a supply of fresh batteries is another useful preparation. Additionally, avoiding opening refrigerators and freezers will help preserve food for longer periods without power. If the outage is prolonged, one should consider a safe way to cook food or boil water, if necessary. For those who depend on powered medical equipment, it is crucial to have a backup plan in place. It is recommended to keep essential medications accessible as well. Lastly, during a major outage, staying informed about restoration efforts and safety alerts is important. Duke Energy provides updates about outages and their expected restoration times on their website, which can be a reliable source of information during such events. For any specific concerns, individuals may wish to refer to the relevant web page for customer support and contact information.