City of Toronto experiencing power outages

TORONTO, Dec. 21, 2013 /CNW/ - Toronto Hydro reports that the City of Toronto is experiencing localized power outages due to the freezing rain this evening. Your patience is needed and appreciated during weather-related power outages. Toronto Hydro will work to restore power as quickly as possible.

The City of Toronto encourages residents and businesses to take precautionary steps to protect their property and ensure their safety. Freezing rain and ice can contribute to downed trees and power lines. Residents are advised to stay away from downed wires and trees that may have an electrical charge. For the most up-to-date weather information, visit Environment Canada's website at http://weather.gc.ca/index_e.html.

During an outage:

• Unplug or turn off all appliances to avoid possible damage when power resumes.
• Turn off water to the clothes washer and dishwasher if they are in use when the power goes out.
• Leave a light or radio on so you will know when power is restored.
• When power has been restored, check all fuses to ensure that none have been blown, before calling Toronto Hydro.
• Plug in only the most essential appliances first, and wait 10 to 15 minutes to give the electrical system time to stabilize before connecting everything else.

How to report a power outage:

• Call Toronto Hydro-Electric System's Lights Out number at 416-542-8000. Add the number to your list of other emergency numbers.

After power is restored, try to limit electricity use to help relieve potential strain on the system. Energy conservation tips include:

• Turning off all non-essential internal and external lights
• Limiting the use of major power-consuming equipment such as dishwashers, washers and dryers.

Residents are reminded that 911 is for emergencies only, including downed power lines. For all other incidents where police are required, call the non-emergency number at 416-808-2222.

Call 311, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to report flooded or damaged expressways, non-working traffic signals, other road and sidewalk problems as well as damaged trees on City property.

For damaged trees on private property, residents should obtain a private tree service company.

For updates during an emergency event and other City of Toronto information, follow @TorontoComms on Twitter.

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

SOURCE: City of Toronto

For further information:

Media contact: Deborah Brown, Manager of Communications Planning and Research, Strategic Communications, 416-919-6501, [email protected]