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Navigating Outages and Utility Safety

Reliable power and heat are essential to life in Manitoba, but storms, ice, and equipment failures can cause disruptions lasting from a few hours to several days. We have compiled this guide to help you manage outages safely and comfortably using the Manitoba Hydro handbook. Whether you are looking for instructions on safely operating a standby generator or life-saving information on natural gas, this page provides the technical guidance you need.

Reporting & Downed Lines

If you experience a utility emergency, contact Manitoba Hydro immediately. Always assume any downed line is energized and dangerous.

  • Manitoba Hydro Outage Line: Call 1-888-624-9376 (1-888-MBHYDRO) to report outages or ice buildup on lines.

  • Downed Power Lines: Call 911 immediately. Stay at least 10 metres (33 feet) away from the line and anything it is touching, such as fences, trees, or puddles.

  • Vehicle Contact: If a power line touches your car, stay inside the vehicle. If you must exit due to fire, jump clear with feet together and shuffle or hop away for 10 metres without lifting your feet from the ground.

Power Outage Checklist

Being prepared allows you to stay calm and protect your home’s systems until power is restored. Below are simple steps to take in case of a short-term outage lasting an hour or two, or an extended outage lasting several days.

  • Appliance Safety: Turn off or unplug electronics and heat-generating appliances (stoves, ovens, irons) to prevent fire or damage from voltage surges when power returns.

  • Interior Lighting: Turn off all light switches except for one inside and one outside so you (and Hydro crews) know when power is back.

  • Surge Protection: Use surge suppressors for sensitive electronics. Note that a power strip is not a surge suppressor; ensure your devices are plugged into a dedicated suppressor to protect them from the “stabilization period” when power first returns.

  • Winter Pipe Protection: If the outage is extended, turn off the main water valve and drain the lines. Add a small amount of RV antifreeze to all toilet tanks, bowls, and sink drains.

  • Food Preservation: Keep fridge and freezer doors closed. A refrigerator keeps food safe for 4 hours; a full freezer maintains temperature for 48 hours.

  • Alternate Heat: Use a wood stove or fireplace if available. Ensure they are properly vented and maintained.

Standby Generators

While generators are a great tool for long outages, they must be used with extreme caution to protect your home and utility workers.

  • Transfer Switch: A licensed electrician must install a transfer switch to isolate your generator from the main power grid. This prevents “back-feeding,” which is fatal to Hydro crews.

  • Safe Placement: Never operate a generator indoors or in an enclosed garage. Poisonous gases can build up quickly.

  • Connection: Only plug essential devices into the generator. Never plug a generator directly into a household wall outlet.

Carbon Monoxide (CO): The Silent Killer

Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels (wood, propane, gasoline). Because it is invisible, tasteless, and odourless, it cannot be detected by human senses. Take precautions when using alternative heat and power sources during power outages.

  • CO Alarms: Install, test, and maintain carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.

  • Safe Heating: Never use a BBQ, camp stove, or propane heater indoors. These are for outdoor use only.

  • Maintenance: Have a licensed contractor regularly service your wood-burning equipment or any fuel-burning appliances.

  • Symptoms: CO poisoning feels like the common flu, but without a fever (headache, dizziness, nausea).

  • Emergency Action: If your CO alarm sounds or you suspect a leak, get everyone to fresh air immediately and call 911.

Private Water & Septic Systems

For residents on private wells and septic fields, a power outage means your pumps will stop working. Below are a few things to keep in mind to protect your water supply.

  • Water Supply: If your water system is powered by electricity, keep a supply of bottled water on hand. A three-day supply of 12 litres per person is recommended.

  • Septic Management: Avoid or limit water use during an outage. Without power, your septic pump (if equipped) will not move effluent to the field, which can cause backups or system damage.

  • Well Safety: If you use a generator to power your well pump, ensure it is connected through a proper transfer switch.

  • Post-Outage: Once power is restored, check that your pressure tank is functioning correctly and allow the water heater to fill completely before turning it back on.

Emergency Management Organization Downloadables

Want to support your community? We are looking for volunteers to join our EMO team. If you’re interested in lending a hand to your community safety, contact the municipal office 204-426-5305.