Between summer storms and hurricane season, power outages are part of life on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. When the lights go out, a few simple steps help you figure out what is wrong and keep your family safe.
Step 1: Check whether it is just you
Look outside. If your neighbors and the street lights are out too, it is most likely a utility outage. Report it to your power company and wait for them to restore service.
If only your home is out, or only part of your home, the problem is probably on your side of the meter. That is when you call an electrician.
Step 2: Check your panel
If part of your home lost power, look for a tripped breaker. A tripped breaker usually sits in the middle position or the off position. Turn it fully off, then back on. If it trips again right away, leave it off and call us. It is protecting you from a problem.
Step 3: Stay safe
- If you see smoke or fire, get everyone out and call 911.
- Stay far away from downed power lines and report them to your power company.
- Stay out of standing water near outlets, cords or electrical equipment.
- Unplug sensitive electronics so they are not hit by a surge when power returns.
Using a portable generator safely
Portable generators help during long outages, but they need to be used carefully:
- Run them outdoors only, well away from doors, windows and vents. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide.
- Never plug a generator into a wall outlet. This is called backfeeding, and it can injure you, your neighbors and utility workers.
- Use heavy-duty outdoor extension cords, or have a transfer switch or interlock installed so you can power circuits the safe way.
After the storm
If water reached outlets, wiring or your panel, or if your meter or service mast was damaged, have your system checked before you turn everything back on. Call Southern Grid Electric at 228-357-6300. We provide after-hours emergency service for homes and businesses.
