How you can help during an outage

If your home or business is affected by a power outage, here are some steps you can take to help UniSource restore service as quickly and safely as possible:

• Report outages promptly using our free mobile app or log in to My Account. You also can call UniSource Customer Care at 877-837-4968. Use the outage map on our website or mobile app for updates.
• Turn off your heating or cooling system as well as any plugged-in computers or other sensitive electronic devices. This protects them from damage if grid voltage surges or dips momentarily when power is restored. Leave on a light so that you’ll know when power is restored and consider installing surge protection power strips.
• Avoid flooded roads and areas.
• Stay away from downed power lines and keep others away.
• Clear the way for utility trucks on roadways.
• Be alert and drive with caution through our work areas.
• Distractions can be dangerous. Please allow crews to work interrupted to expedite restoration efforts, for your safety and theirs.
• Remove debris around utility poles and in the alleys by your property to help crews access our equipment and begin making repairs promptly.

If you’re using a portable generator during an outage, take these precautions for their safe operation:

• Place the generator outdoors away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the home. Never operate a generator indoors or in an enclosed space.
• Avoid overloading the generator by turning on appliances one at a time.
• Properly ground the generator to avoid an electrical hazard.
• Do not connect the generator directly to your home’s wiring.
• Always shut off the main power breaker in our home when using the generator to prevent electricity from flowing into UniSource’s local energy grid. This helps protect our crews and prevents damage to your generator when power is restored.

What to do after an outage

Once power has been restored, customers should take these safety steps:

• If you do not have power after our crews finish repairs, check your fuses and circuit breaker.
• If you need to reset your main circuit breaker, stand on a dry surface while doing so to prevent an electrical hazard.
• Call a professional electrician if you have electrical problems. Don’t attempt to make repairs yourself if you’re unsure how to proceed.
• If you are using a portable generator, disconnect it before turning on your main circuit breaker to power up the home.
• Turn on major appliances and electronics one at a time.
• Assess any damage to your home or property.
• Avoid driving through flooded areas or roads.