Safety & Preparedness

Preparing for Outages

The first step in preparing for potential power outages is updating your contact information in My Account and signing up for outage alerts. Also consider taking these additional steps: 

  • Set your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting to keep food cold for up to 4 hours in the fridge and up to 48 hours in the freezer.   
  • Turn off or unplug electrical appliances or equipment that could surge when power returns. 
  • Consider purchasing portable charger banks and stock up on batteries. 
  • Keep your pets’ needs in mind when obtaining supplies. 
  • Practice opening garage doors without the electronic motor. 
  • Acquire a first aid kit of sufficient size for your household and keep it stocked. 
  • Keep an emergency supply of prescription and non-prescription medications on hand, and plan for medications, like insulin, that require refrigeration. 
  • Fully charge personal medical devices and ensure a backup power source is available for electrically powered medical equipment. 
  • Designate a dedicated outdoor space for generators, grills and stoves, and make sure they are functioning properly. Do not operate these items indoors or in partially enclosed spaces. 
  • Write down emergency numbers and critical contact information.  
  • Check in with neighbors, especially the elderly and those with disabilities. 

For more information on how to prepare for power outages, visit our Outage and Safety page.

Wildfire Safety and Preparedness Resources

Xcel Energy Natural Gas and Electric Safety

Public safety is at the foundation of all we do. The safety of the public around our electric and natural gas systems influences every decision we make. All of Xcel Energy’s electric and natural gas infrastructure has been designed to meet federal and state standards and safety requirements for installing, maintaining and operating this equipment.

Do not touch downed electric lines or anyone or anything in contact with them. Instead, clear the area immediately and contact Xcel Energy’s emergency number: 800-895-1999. Call 911 in an emergency.

Downed or low-hanging power lines and damaged electrical equipment have the potential to cause serious injuries or even death. Always assume that electric lines and equipment are energized, even if they do not appear to be “live.” We recommend you stay at least 25 feet away from downed lines and 10 feet away from overhead lines.

Find out more about Xcel Energy’s electric system safety.

If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the building immediately. Once you are a safe distance away, call 911, then Xcel Energy at 800-895-2999. It is important to know how to recognize potentially dangerous natural gas leaks, so use your senses. Signs of a natural gas leak include:

  • A “rotten egg” or sulfur-like odor, though it may smell differently to you.
  • Hissing, whistling or roaring sounds outside near the natural gas line or inside near an appliance.
  • Dirt spraying into the air or continuous bubbling in a pond or creek.
  • Unexplained dead or dying vegetation.

Learn more about Xcel Energy’s gas system safety.

After a 911 call, emergency services are often the first to arrive at the scene, so we offer first responders safety guidance and training to respond to natural gas and electric emergencies.