 Safety If the Lights Go Out --
At Cheyenne Light Fuel & Power, we do our best to keep your energy service as reliable as possible, but sometimes circumstances beyond our control can cause an outage.
For example, lightning, snowstorms, high winds, or equipment failure could cause a temporary electrical outage. When that happens, questions are asked by our customers on how to handle an electrical outage emergency.
Here are answers to commonly asked questions about electrical power outages.
What should I do when the lights go out?
Don't panic. Check to see if your home or your neighbors have power. If not, be sure to call our 24-hour emergency number. Don't assume someone else will call. In Cheyenne, call 307-638-3361.
What if the outage is only in my home?
If you're the only one without power, see whether a main fuse is blown or a circuit breaker is tripped. Keep extra fuses on hand. Never change a fuse or reset a circuit breaker in the dark. Use a flashlight.
If your fuse or circuit breaker is not the problem, the service wire connection to your home may be down. Electrical wires may fall on trees, fences, rain gutters, metal siding, vehicles and the ground. If so, DON'T GO NEAR IT! It may still be charged with electricity. Contact Cheyenne Light immediately whenever you see downed electrical wires.
How long will it take for my power to come back on?
Different circumstances can result in varying outage times. During extreme weather conditions or major equipment failure, outage time can increase.
We ask that you turn light switches to the off position and unplug equipment and appliances. This will help prevent a sudden high demand for power when the service is restored. Leave one or two lights on so you will know when your service is back on.
How does Cheyenne Light decide who gets their power restored first?
Cheyenne Light crews will repair major electric lines which serve hundreds of customers before they can repair scattered outages. Emergency services, major communication facilities, and customers on life support equipment also must take priority.
Will my gas, propane, or electric heating system operate?
A central gas, propane, or electric heating system, will not operate while the power is out. Here are some tips to help you get comfortable: - Never use a gas oven or range to heat your home. This may create deadly carbon monoxide gas in a closed house. Also, using a kerosene heater or woodburner can cause deadly carbon monoxide gas if inadequately ventilated.
- Wear layers of clothing and use several layers of blankets for the most warmth.
- If you use a portable generator, do not connect or plug it into the wiring system of a home or building. This may feed back through the transformer and power lines that are down or being worked on by Cheyenne Light crews. Plug individual appliances directly into the portable generator.
What about my frozen and refrigerated foods?
A freezer and refrigerator will maintain foods for 12 to 48 hours or longer, depending on the room temperature and frequency of opening. Avoid opening your freezer or refrigerator during a power outage unless it's absolutely necessary.
What about cooking?
A camp stove, fireplace, or can of sterno can be used for cooking during power outages. But BE CAREFUL! Be sure to provide adequate ventilation if you cook with an alternate fuel. Use camp stoves and charcoal grills OUTSIDE ONLY.
Will power surge protection help?
Sudden "split second" changes in voltage occur in all electrical systems. Unfortunately, electric appliances and devices such as TV's, VCR's, and computers are extremely sensitive to such changes.
Surge suppressors are designed to help protect sensitive electric equipment. Surge suppressors do not prevent power interruptions. You can buy them at many electronic, computer, hardware, and department stores.
Are Cheyenne Light crews equipped with radio emergency assistance?
Yes. Nearly all Cheyenne Light service vehicles are equipped with two-way radios and will relay emergency messages if your telephone is not operable. If you need to call the police, an ambulance, the fire department or rescue squad, flag down our vehicle and explain the problem. Our driver will radio for assistance right away.
What equipment should I have available in case of an electrical outage?
We suggest you keep a supply kit in case of a power outage. Your kit should contain: - Flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs
- List of emergency phone numbers
- Battery operated lantern - for room light
- Canned foods and manual can opener
- Blankets
- Battery-powered radio, with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
Who do I contact when my electric power goes out? 24-Hour Emergency Number:
800-246-1109 |
