Self-HelpAdvice.PDFVIP

Self-Help Advice Winter Power Failures This publication was produced by the Office of Critical Infrastructure Protection and Emergency Preparedness in co-operation with: An electronic version is accessible on the Internet. This publication is also available in alternate formats (audio- cassette, large print, computer diskette and Braille) through InfoTouch by calling toll-free 1-800-788-8282. Use the same number for teletypewriter (TTY). Cette publication est aussi disponible en fran?ais. Elle s’intitule : Pannes de courant en hiver . ISBN 0-662-30888-3 Catalogue no. D82-24/2001E ? Minister of Public Works and Government Services WINTER POWER FAILURES MOST CANADIAN HOME-HEATING SYSTEMS ARE DEPENDENT UPON ELECTRIC POWER. POWER SUPPLY INTERRUPTIONS CAN LAST FROM A FEW HOURS TO SEVERAL DAYS AND ARE OFTEN CAUSED BY FREEZING RAIN, SLEET STORMS AND/OR HIGH WINDS WHICH DAMAGE POWER LINES AND EQUIPMENT. AN EXTENDED POWER FAILURE DURING WINTER MONTHS AND SUBSEQUENT LOSS OF HEATING CAN RESULT IN COLD, DAMP HOMES, SEVERE LIVING CONDITIONS AND DAMAGE TO WALLS, FLOORS AND PLUMBING. Following these simple suggestions can reduce the harmful effects of power and heating failure in sub-zero weather. PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE ?You can install a non-electric standby stove or heater. Choose heating units that are not dependent on an electric motor, electric fan, or some other electrical device to function. It is also important to adequately vent the stove or heater with the type of chimney flue specified for it. Never connect two heating units to the same chim- ney flue at the same time. If it is necessary to vent the standby heater to the existing chimney flue used by the furnace, first disconnect the furnace from it. Use only fuel-burning heaters certified by the Canadian Standards Association or Canadian Gas Association.