Power outages can be caused by a number of factors including storms, high winds, heat waves, and cold snaps, and can range from short term outages, to even days or weeks.

During an outage you may be left without heating/air conditioning, lighting, hot water, and phone service (if you have a cordless phone) so it is important that you and your family are prepared.

Tips:

  • Don't open your freezer or fridge unless it is absolutely necessary. A full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours if the door remains closed.
  • Never use charcoal or gas barbecues, camping heating equipment, or home generators indoors. They give off carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
  • Make sure your home has a working carbon monoxide detector. If it is hard-wired to the house's electrical supply, ensure it has a battery-powered back-up.
  • Turn off all tools, appliances, electronic equipment and all lights, except one inside and one outside, so that both you and hydro crews outside know that power has been restored.
  • Use your thermostat to turn off heating or air conditioning. 

More tips...

The electrical supply company for Pickering is Elexicon Energy.

Their crews are out assisting with restoration efforts but it will take time. They thank the public for their continued patience as they are working as quickly and safely as possible.

Private property owners should contact Elexicon if they see the following hazardous conditions:

  • Trees/branches smoking, sparking or burning
  • Tree is an immediate hazard to the power line where it is split, leaning or hanging