Safety

Extreme Weather Safety

  1. Electricity Safety
  2. ATCO Electric | Extreme Weather Safety

STAYING SAFE DURING WEATHER EMERGENCIES

Albertans experience many different weather conditions throughout the year. This includes thunderstorms, extreme frost, snowstorms, and while not an actual weather phenomenon, wildfires are directly related to weather conditions. Some extreme weather events may cause power outages, power fluctuations, and safety hazards in the communities we serve. When this happens, our crews are ready to respond and restore power as quickly and safely as possible.

While we do what we can to prevent disruptions to your service, knowing how to prepare for extreme weather can make a huge difference to your safety and well-being. Click through the steps below to know what to do in the case of an extreme weather event.

  • Before an Event
    WHAT TO DO IF YOU KNOW THERE IS A WEATHER EMERGENCY COMING

    1. Make a plan 

    • Every household should have an emergency plan. Identify safe meeting places, exit plans, and emergency contact information and ensure the information is accessible.  
    • Take the time to review your emergency plan at least once a year with the entire family and, if necessary, update the plan. 
    • Having a generator at home can keep your electricity going if the power goes out.  

     

    2. Check your 72-hour Emergency Kit 

    • Extreme weather is one of the most common reasons for outages in our service territory. Ensure you have an emergency kit prepared to sustain you and your family for up to 72 hours. Download our Power Pack Guide to find out what to include in your kit.  

     

    3. Prepare 

    • Ensure your devices like your phone, laptop, and rechargeable cordless power banks are charged. This will help ensure you stay connected to the latest information. Download our My ATCO Electricity App to see updates on outages affecting you. Enter your information and start receiving personalized notifications to your preferred device. 

     

    Pro-tip: if you have a smart home, have a plan B for your smart devices, like a traditional house key instead of your keypad.  

    Outage Tips
  • During an Event
    WHAT TO DO DURING A WEATHER EMERGENCY

    1. Stay safe 

    • Stay away from large objects or windows that could fall and/or break. 
      • If you see a downed power line, stay at least 10 meters away, as they can be extremely dangerous. Call our Emergency outage line 1-800-668-5506 and keep everyone safe from the area.  
    • If there’s flooding, ensure all electronics are unplugged and stay above the water line.  
    • Avoid walking through any standing flood water, as it could be energized and electrocute you. 
    • Generators should be used at least 20 ft away from any doors, windows, or vents. 
       

    2. Stay informed 

    Outage Map
  • After an Event
    WHAT TO DO ONCE THE WEATHER EMERGENCY HAS PASSED

    1. Investigate 

    • When safe to do so, inspect your property for any damage.
    • Plug-in devices slowly to avoid a power surge. 
       

    2. Repair 

    • If you come across damage to your property, ensure you document it so you can submit a claim through insurance later. 
    • If your power is still out after the storm, report it through the My ATCO Electricity App, on our website, or by calling us at 1-800-668-5506. For emergencies, call 9-1-1.  
       

    3. Replenish  

    • Refill your 72-hour emergency kit with any supplies you used during the storm.  
    • Recharge your power bank. 
    • Dispose of spoiled food. If you’re unsure, it’s best to throw it away to be safe.  
    Report an outage
Weathering the Storm