Overview
An outage is a short or long-term loss of water or electric power. It can affect a single property, a building or an entire community.
Many of Alberta’s hazards, such as high winds, freezing rain and flooding, can damage power lines causing power outages.
Water outages can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations and pipe corrosion causing water main breaks, among other reasons.
Before an outage
- Download the Alberta Emergency Alert app for critical, life-saving alerts.
- Find out where your community will post information and updates during an emergency.
- Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with supplies such as food, battery-powered or crank flashlights and radios, along with extra batteries.
- Develop and practice a preparedness plan for you and your loved ones.
- Store water for your family (including pets) for drinking, cooking and hygiene.
- Have a backup exit plan if you rely on an elevator.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector with backup battery power.
- Have backup power in place for your generator, heat and critical medical equipment. Follow all manufacturer’s instructions when installing backup units, or have them professionally installed.
- If you have a vehicle, keep the tank full in case fuel stations lose power or close down.
During an outage
Outages can leave you without heat, water, lights, air conditioning, information services and vital communication channels. Services such as grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, banks and ATMs may be closed during an extended outage.
Generators, camp stoves or barbecues do not belong indoors. Gas stoves and ovens are not a safe heat source due to possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
After an outage
Outages can create safety risks and cause property damage. Be aware of the risks and take caution when power and water returns.
Financial preparedness
In all emergencies or disasters, you can reduce stress by being financially prepared.
- Speak to an insurance agent about your specific needs.
- Know your insurance options and policy limits. Make sure your home, vehicle, business and belongings are protected. Talk to your insurance agent to learn about what is not covered in your insurance policy.
- If possible, consider an emergency savings account to cover temporary expenses while you are out of your home.
- If you can, keep emergency cash handy in case banking services are unavailable.
- If you are evacuated, keep all receipts for additional expenses.
- Prepare a detailed list of all your belongings. For more information, see Home Inventory.
- Know the 7 steps for making a home insurance claim. For more information, see Claims Management.
- The Disaster Recovery Program may provide assistance for uninsurable loss and damage.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is ready to answer your questions. Connect with them by email at [email protected] or by telephone 1-844-227-5422. For more information on insurance preparedness visit IBC.
Staying informed
Staying informed during emergencies can save your life. Protect yourself and your loved ones by downloading the Alberta Emergency Alert app to receive critical, life-saving alerts.
You can also find out more information by contacting your community directly to find out where they post updated information during emergencies.
Before you travel, check Alberta 511 for current road conditions to help you arrive to your destination safely.
Helping others
Check with your community to learn how to help others during severe weather events. If you are concerned for someone’s safety, call:
- 211 if someone is in distress or in an unsafe place
- 911 if they’re unconscious or need medical help
Resources and translations
Education material you can read, print and download to share online and within your community. Translated versions are also available in українською (Ukrainian), عربي (Arabic), 简体中文 (Simplified Chinese), 繁體中文 (Traditional Chinese), ਪੰਜਾਬੀ (Punjabi), Deutsch (High German), Plautdietsch (Low German), Español (Spanish), Français (French) and Tagalog (Tagalog).
Translations
Videos
How can you prepare for an outage?
A power or water outage can create dangerous situations. Learn steps you can take to become better prepared.
How can you prepare for an emergency or disaster without spending a lot of money?
Being prepared doesn't have to be costly. Learn how you can prepare without spending a lot of money.
Contact
Connect with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-422-9000
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]
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