Power Outages & Safety

If you have any questions or concerns regarding planned power outages, please contact the Electric Utility Department at 250-490-2535 or review the Frequently Asked Questions.

• To report a power outage during regular business hours (Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.), please contact the Electric Utility at 250-490-2539.
• To report a power outage after hours, please call the after-hours emergency line at 250-490-2324.

If you see a downed power line, stay back at least 10 metres and dial 911.

Check the following resources to receive ongoing updates:

•  Subscribe to City news for email updates from the City of Penticton
• Download the City of Penticton app for updates straight to your cellphone (available from Google Play or the App Store)
• Facebook: follow City of Penticton – Municipality
• Twitter: @cityofpenticton 

• Post emergency and utility contact numbers in the house
• Install carbon monoxide alarms for extra safety when using generators or other backup heating and cooking devices
• Plug electronics into surge-protecting power bars
• Try to keep phones charged when a storm is in the forecast
• Create an emergency kit with these essentials:
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Battery or crank-operated clock and radio
• Corded telephone
• First aid kit
• Bottled water and non-perishable ready to eat foods
• Warm clothing and blankets
• Supplies for people with special needs
• Games, cards and books to keep everyone busy

• Turn off all appliances, including computers and peripherals, especially those that generate heat. This helps prevent hazards or damage when service is restored. 
• Turn off all lights except one inside your home or business, and one outside. The inside light lets you know and the outside light lets electrical crews know when the power is back on.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to keep food cool.
• Never approach downed power lines! Stay at least 10 metres away and do not attempt to remove nearby debris. Always assume that a line, or anything it is contact with, is energized. If you see a fallen line, call 911 immediately.

The following booklets provide further information about electrical safety:

• Low-voltage systems, which serve most homes and commercial buildings.
• High-voltage systems, which are generally associated with utility services and heavy industry.
• Types of electrical injuries and first aid tips.