Power Outage Preparation

Wright-Hennepin does everything it can to avoid interruptions to your electric service. But sometimes, weather can make power outages unavoidable. Here are some tips so you can be prepared:

• Never touch a fallen power line, and assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. Call Wright-Hennepin at (763) 477-3100 to report fallen lines immediately. Avoid contact with overhead lines at all times.
• Stay tuned to weather forecasts.
• Medical emergencies: Wright-Hennepin attempts to provide members on life-support systems priority during outages. If you or a family member requires some form of life-support, make sure you are on Wright-Hennepin’s critical service list before an outage occurs.
• Consider obtaining a backup source of power in case the power does go out for an extended period. Keep your backup generator in good condition and test it periodically. Never run a generator inside your home.
• Have an outage kit prepared ahead of time, containing the following items:
  • Working flashlight
  • Battery-powered radio
  • Extra batteries
  • Outage numbers
  • Candles and matches (never leave a candle unattended)
  • Standard touch-tone phone (not cordless) and a fully charged cell phone
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Bottled water
  • Non-perishable food
• Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer so you don't lose cold air.
• Do not operate charcoal or propane-powered equipment inside your home.
• After the storm: Replace used batteries in your emergency kit and restock food and water to be prepared for the next storm.