Blog

Aug 07, 2023

Here's what to do if you lose power

Severe weather can cause power outages in your area. It is important to know how to report an outage and what to do to keep you and your loved ones safe. WRAL has a team of meteorologists tracking the

Severe weather can cause power outages in your area. It is important to know how to report an outage and what to do to keep you and your loved ones safe.

WRAL has a team of meteorologists tracking the weather each day to bring you the latest information about potential severe weather in your area.

Create an emergency kit. It should have food, water, medication and any other supplies you may need for 72 hours.

Get extra batteries to power radios, flashlights and portable phone chargers.

If medications or other necessities need to be refrigerated, develop an alternate plan to keep them stored at the proper temperature. Get a cooler and ice ready to store perishables.

Call your electric company to report the outage.

These are area energy providers:

See a map of outages

Ready NC suggests the following tips:

Ready NC suggests the following tips:

If you see a downed power line, immediately leave the area and call your electric company or 911. Do not make contact with any tree branches or debris that could be touching the downed line. Always assume a downed power line is live.

Ready NC suggests the following tips:

If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, open a window and exit the home. If you can turn off the main gas valve from outside, do it. Leave the home and call your gas company. A trained professional is needed to turn the gas back on. DO NOT smoke or use oil, gas lanterns, candles or torches until you are sure there is no gas leak.