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Common FAQs Concerning Power Outages

To continue the theme of last week’s article, we have compiled some common questions that are asked about power outages.
• Can I shower or flush my toilet during a power outage?
o Yes, you can still use a toilet in a power outage, and if it has trouble flushing you can easily fix this problem by pouring water into the bowl.
o Showering during a power outage is perfectly safe. However, if you have a tankless water heater, it does not provide hot water in the event of a power outage unless it is connected to a backup generator. If you have a traditional water heater it is also important to note that there will be a limited supply of hot water available in the heater, and therefore depending on the length of the power outage, it should be conserved.
• Where do I report a power outage?
o To report a power outage in your area you can call your local utility. Have your local utility’s number on hand in advance!
• How long will my power be out?
o This depends on the severity of the storm and the accessibility of your home to electrical workers.
If you haven’t read last week’s article about preparing for a power outage be sure to check it out to learn all of our tips and tricks!