When bad weather is predicted in our service area, we pre-position our line workers and resources before storms arrive to lessen any impact on our customers. But if the power does go out, here’s how to keep your family safe and ready for the possibility of being without electricity – possibly for an extended amount of time.  

The safety of our workers and the public is our top priority during any severe weather event. Follow these tips to stay safe and be prepared in case of an outage.

If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 immediately. Do not wait for your power to be turned back on.

Storm Safety Kit

Make sure you and your family have a backup plan and are prepared for any unexpected outages. A storm safety kit can help you put important items in one central location so you can easily find them if needed. A few essentials to consider:

•  Battery-operated or crank radio

•  Flashlight

•  Batteries

•  First-aid kit

•  Extra water bottles

Also, be sure to have important medications or prescriptions on hand, and fully charge any medical equipment. Learn more about preparing your storm safety kit here.

How to Report a Power Outage

Customers can report outages by calling 888-313-4747, texting OUT to 66267, or by downloading the MyOncor app.

How to Sign Up for MyOncor Alerts

To get updates about power outages and service restoration affecting your home or business during a storm, sign up for MyOncor Alerts. You can receive notices via text, phone, or email - anywhere, anytime. Sign up with your phone by texting REG to 66267 and we'll sign you up, or follow these steps at the My Oncor Alert sign-up site.

Stay Away from Powerlines

If you see a downed powerline, always assume that it’s energized. Contact with power lines can cause serious injury or even death. Never approach, touch, or attempt to move a downed power line or any object in contact with a power line. Live lines can also be hidden under fallen vegetation or debris, so be cautious on roadways especially after a major storm.

If you see a downed power line:

• Leave the area immediately and call 911. The 911 operator will contact Oncor directly and manage the situation until our personnel arrive.

• You can also report downed power lines at 888-313-4747.

• Learn more about power line safety here.

Critical Care Customers

While prioritized during power restoration events, critical care designations do not guarantee an uninterrupted power supply, especially during severe weather. Customers who rely on electricity for life-saving medical devices should have a plan in place in case of power outages, such as a portable generator, staying with a family or friend or staying in a hotel.

Food Safety 

Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Opening and closing doors will release cold air and cause the safe storage time of perishable items to reduce.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a fully stocked refrigerator will stay cold for about four hours. A freezer will keep its temperature for 24 hours if half full or 48 hours if full.

If you’re unsure if food is still safe after power returns, you can review the USDA’s evaluation charts for refrigerated and frozen foods.

Follow Safety Precautions with Portable Emergency Generators

Emergency equipment like portable generators are a helpful tool to have ready in case of an emergency event or power outage. However, they can be hazardous if not used correctly. FEMA and Ready.gov recommend you follow these safety tips below to keep safety top of mind when using your portable generator.

• Never set up a portable generator in an enclosed space and make sure it’s at least 20 feet away from any window, door or vent.

• Always operate according to the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure installation meets proper electrical requirements to avoid dangerous power surges.

• If you plan on using an extension cord, be sure to use heavy-duty cords with no tears or damage.

• Learn more about generator safety here.

Warming/Cooling Centers

Many cities and communities have established warming and cooling centers to provide individuals without available heat or air conditioning a safe place to stay until their power is restored. The Texas Department of Emergency Services has compiled an interactive map of active centers across the state. If you are experiencing an extended power outage, you can find information about shelters that could be available in your location, by visiting TDEM.Texas.gov/.

To get the latest information and updates from Oncor, visit our newsroom site The Wire for updates and more information about each resource available to you. Plus, check out our Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates.