Outage Preparation
Our energy delivery system itself is smart, safe and reliable. However, outages do happen. We suggest you and your family follow these steps to prepare for bad weather or other possible service interruptions.
Outage Safety Checklist
Make sure that your most valuable electronics — think computers, TVs, cable boxes and sound systems — are plugged into a surge protector instead of the wall. Surge protectors are different from power strips; they protect electronics from energy surges during storms or outages.
For any appliances you want to use during an outage, make sure it can run on a battery. Common examples include alarm clocks and flashlights. You might also invest in portable chargers for your small devices, and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to power up your computer, router or modem.
An emergency kit is a lifesaver during an outage, when it can be hard to navigate in the dark. We recommend assembling the following items in your emergency kit:
- Emergency telephone numbers
- Flashlights and fresh batteries
- Battery-powered radio
- Supply of bottled water (one gallon per person, per day)
- Non-perishable foods that don't require heating
- Food and water for your pets
- Paper plates and plastic utensils
- Hand-operated can opener
- First-aid kit and medications
- Ice cooler for temporary food or medication storage
- Blankets, bedding or sleeping bags
- Battery-powered or wind-up alarm clock
- Special items for infants, the elderly or family members with special needs
- Identification and copies of important family documents
- Small bills and change
When you know extreme weather is coming, take a few minutes to prepare your home. If you’re at home or leaving for vacation, turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting, turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment, place important documents in a waterproof storage box, check that your emergency kit is ready, and register any electrically operated medical equipment with Ameren.
Outside, make sure your vehicle's gas tank is full or your EV is fully charged. Bring patio furniture, bicycles, and other lightweight objects inside. If you have a swimming pool or hot tub, turn off all pumps and filters and wrap them in waterproof materials.
If you or a loved one rely on medical equipment, like a heart monitor or respirator, please register your equipment with Ameren so we can notify you about planned outages. If you are a caregiver, you can also sign up for the Caring Contact program to ensure you receive important account updates for the person in your care.
Get More Safety Tips
Find more specific tips on staying safe during extreme weather, natural gas leaks or other home and workplace hazards.