Outage Preparedness for Critical Facilities

Idaho Power understands our communities rely on critical facilities — hospitals, gas stations, sewer plants, police and fire stations, etc. —  every day. Here are some tips to help these important institutions prepare for outages and emergencies so they can focus on the essential services they provide.

Make a Plan

  • Review federal and state emergency preparedness code requirements, if applicable.
  • Develop a power outage communication plan.
    • Assign a communication coordinator.
    • Create a list of all employee phone numbers, email addresses, and emergency contacts.
  • Identify critical operations that need to be functional during an outage, such as security, IT systems, and communication channels.
  • Protect and back up critical documents and records.
  • Ensure first-aid kits are stocked and exit signs and emergency lighting is working.
  • Conduct regular training and drills, including testing your communication plan.
  • Communicate and get involved with local agencies, utilities, and emergency services.

Maintain and Test Your Backup Generation

  • Inspect and test generator battery starting system (most common point of failure).
  • Schedule routine generator operation, maintenance, and load bank tests.
  • Ensure adequate fuel supply and understand generator runtime capability.

Stay Informed

  • Download Idaho Power’s mobile app.
  • Visit Idaho Power’s Outage Map for the latest information if you are without power.
  • Contact your local Idaho Power energy advisor or Customer Care Team (208-388-2323) with any questions.

Learn more about how to safely prepare for outages.