A power outage can occur at any time. To avoid accidents, here are a few essential rules to follow:

1. Avoid using combustion appliances indoors

Never use the following indoors:

• BBQ
• Outdoor fireplaces
• Propane stoves
• Camping equipment
• Generator

These appliances produce carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless, and colorless gas. Reserve the use of devices designed for outdoor use for that purpose only.
Generators must be installed outdoors, at least 7 meters (23 feet) away from the house, far from doors and windows.

2. Choose safe lighting options

• Opt for: flashlights, battery-powered lanterns, headlamps.
• Avoid candles as much as possible. If you must use them:
  • Place them in a stable holder.
  • Keep them away from curtains, furniture, and decorations.
  • Never leave them unattended.
  • Extinguish all candles before going to bed.

3. Be cautious with heating appliances

Space heaters that run on oil, kerosene, or propane should never be used indoors.

4. Kitchen safety

If you’re cooking on a BBQ, make sure the cooking is done outdoors only.

5. Communication and prevention

• Keep a charged phone to call 911 in case of a fire.
• Keep a flashlight within reach.
• Make sure all household members know the evacuation plan.

Before the outage:

• Test your smoke alarms using the test button.
• If your smoke alarm is electric, make sure it has a backup battery. If not, temporarily install a smoke alarm with a non-removable battery.
• Never remove the electric smoke alarm during a power outage: it may work with the backup battery.

These simple actions can save lives. Safety first!