Power outages can disrupt electronic payments, security systems, refrigeration, communications and other essential business operations. Employers should create an outage plan that protects employees and customers while helping the business recover more quickly.
Businesses should:
- Maintain current contact information with PG&E and enroll in outage notifications.
- Identify equipment and business functions that depend on electricity.
- Establish procedures for safely closing or evacuating the building.
- Assign staff responsibilities and maintain an employee contact list.
- Keep emergency lighting, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and chargers available.
- Develop backup plans for phones, internet access and point-of-sale systems.
- Protect computers and other sensitive equipment with surge protection.
- Know how refrigeration, fire alarms, access controls and security systems will be affected.
- Back up important records and customer information securely.
- Post clear updates for customers if hours or services change.
- Review insurance coverage and document outage-related losses when applicable.
Restaurants, markets, pharmacies and other businesses with temperature-sensitive products should also have a plan for monitoring refrigeration and safely handling food, medication or inventory during an extended outage.
PG&E provides emergency preparedness checklists specifically for small and medium-sized businesses.
Use Backup Power Safely
Generators and portable batteries can be helpful, but improper use can cause fires, electric shock or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Portable generators must be operated outdoors where exhaust can safely vent—never inside a home, garage or other enclosed area. Do not connect a generator directly to household or business wiring unless the system has been professionally installed with appropriate safety equipment.
Store generator fuel outside occupied buildings in approved containers. Keep portable batteries dry, properly ventilated and away from heat or open flames.
When an Outage Occurs
Report the outage and check restoration updates through PG&E’s Outage Center. Use flashlights instead of candles and conserve phone batteries by limiting unnecessary use.
Check on older adults, neighbors with disabilities and others who may need assistance. Business owners should keep employees and customers informed and close operations if conditions cannot be maintained safely.
Call 211 or visit 211.org to find local resources and support. Always stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them. Call 911 to report an immediate hazard or life-threatening emergency.
Power outages are inconvenient, but planning can reduce stress, protect your property and help keep our community safe. Take time now to assemble supplies, update alerts and talk through your plan—before the lights go out.
