 If
the Lights Go Out ...
At Black Hills Power, we do our best
to keep your electric service as reliable as possible, but sometimes
circumstances beyond our control can cause an electrical outage.
For example. lightning, snowstorms,
high winds, or equipment failure could cause a temporary electrical
outage. When that happens, questions are asked by our customers
on how to handle an electrical outage emergency.
For those circumstances, BHP is proud
to announce an outage call-handling system
that we believe will provide our customers benefits in customer
service and outage restoration.
Here are answers to commonly asked
questions about electrical power outages . . .
What should I do when the lights go
out?
Don't panic. Check to see if your home or your
neighbors have power. If not, be sure to call our automatic outage
reporting number. Don't assume someone else will call. In Rapid
City 721-2475 or outside Rapid City call toll-free 1-800-839-8197.
Follow the instructions and your outage will
be reported.
What if the outage is only in my home?
If you're the only one without power, see whether
a main fuse is blown or a circuit breaker is tripped. Keep extra
fuses on hand. Never change a fuse or reset a circuit breaker in
the dark. Use a flashlight.
If your fuse or circuit breaker is not the problem,
the service wire connection to your home may be down. Electrical
wires may fall on trees, fences, rain gutters, metal siding, vehicles
and the ground. If so, DON'T GO NEAR IT! It may
still be charged with electricity. Contact BHP immediately whenever
you see downed electrical wires.
How long will it take for my power to
come back on?
Different circumstances can result in varying
outage times. During extreme weather conditions or major equipment
failure, outage time can increase.
We ask that you turn light switches to the off
position and unplug equipment and appliances. This will help prevent
a sudden high demand for power when the service is restored. Leave
one or two lights on so you will know when your service is back
on.
How does BHP decide who gets their power
restored first?
BHP crews will repair major electric lines which
serve hundreds of customers before they can repair scattered outages.
Emergency services, major communication facilities, and customers
on life support equipment also must take priority.
Will my gas, propane, or electric heating
system operate?
A central gas, propane, or electric heating
system, will not operate while the power is out. Here are some tips
to help you get comfortable:
- Never use a gas oven or range to heat your
home. This may create deadly carbon monoxide gas in a closed house.
Also, using a kerosene heater or woodburner can cause deadly carbon
monoxide gas if inadequately ventilated.
- Wear layers of clothing and use several layers
of blankets for the most warmth.
- If you use a portable generator, do
not connect or plug it into the wiring system of a home or building.
This may feed back through the transformer and power lines that
are down or being worked on by BHP crews. Plug individual appliances
directly into the portable generator.
What about my frozen and refrigerated
foods?
A freezer and refrigerator will maintain foods
for 12 to 48 hours or longer, depending on the room temperature
and frequency of opening. Avoid opening your freezer or refrigerator
during a power outage unless it's absolutely necessary.
What about cooking?
A camp stove, fireplace, or can of sterno can
be used for cooking during power outages. But BE CAREFUL!
Be sure to provide adequate ventilation if you cook or heat with
alternate fuel. Use camp stoves and charcoal grills OUTSIDE
ONLY.
Will power surge protection help?
Sudden "split second" changes in voltage occur
in all electrical systems. Unfortunately, electric appliances and
devices such as TV's, VCR's, and computers are extremely sensitive
to such changes.
Surge suppressors are designed to help protect
sensitive electric equipment. Surge suppressors do not prevent power
interruptions. You can buy them at many electronic, computer, hardware,
and department stores. Please review the product line carried through
BHP's SurgeGuard Program.
Are your BHP crews equipped with radio
emergency assistance?
Yes. Nearly all BHP service vehicles are equipped
with two-way radios and will relay emergency messages if your telephone
is not operable. If you need to call the police, an ambulance, the
fire department or rescue squad, flag down our vehicle and explain
the problem. Our driver will radio for assistance right away.
What equipment should I have available
in case of an electrical outage?
We suggest you keep a supply kit in case of
a power outage. Your kit should contain:
- Flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs
- List of emergency phone numbers
- Battery operated lantern - for room light
- Canned foods and manual can opener
- Blankets
- Battery-powered radio
- First-aid kit
Who do I contact when my electric power
goes out?
Our Outage Call-Handling
System phone numbers are as follows:.
Rapid City Area:
605-721-2475
Toll-Free Number:
1-800-839-8197
Contact Customer
Service or email: customerservice@blackhillspower.com
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