Why do power outages happen?
Power outages can occur for many reasons, and most are beyond our control. Common causes include:
- Severe weather – storms, high winds, lightening or ice.
- Environmental factors – trees or wildlife interfering with power lines.
- Equipment issues – unexpected faults or failures.
- Motor vehicle accidents – collisions with power poles or electrical equipment.
- Electricity supply – issues with transmission infrastructure.
- Wildfires or a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) – outages during an active wildfire or as a preventative measure during extreme wildfire-risk conditions to help keep communities safe.
Sometimes outages are due to a problem with your breaker in which case you should check your breaker.
Other times we have a planned power outage so we can safely perform repairs or upgrade equipment. When that happens, we’ll do our best to contact you at least two days in advance.
Be prepared for power outages
In extreme conditions, power may be out for an indeterminate amount of time and may result in an extended outage. Here’s how to stay safe and prepared:
Stay safe:- Never approach a downed power line – stay at least 10 metres away.
- Call 9-1-1 then call 310-WIRE (7473) to report downed lines or damaged electrical equipment.
- Unplug electrical equipment to prevent damage when power is restored.
- Use surge protectors for sensitive electronics.
Have a 72-hour emergency kit ready with:
- bottled water
- non-perishable food
- flashlights and batteries
- backup power for medical devices
- Sign up for outage alerts and download community apps.
- Keep your cell phone charged and have a backup battery.
Outage alerts
To ensure we can reach you during an unplanned outage, make sure you update your contact information and medical details with your utility retailer (the company that issues your electricity bill). Sign up for My Account to receive outage alerts when a power outage occurs. In the event of an unplanned outage, customers who are signed up through My Account will receive notification that includes:
- Confirmation that the power is out.
- The cause of the outage.
- Any updated restoration timelines.
- Notification when the power is restored.
Outage map
FortisAlberta’s outage map gives you access to electricity outage information in our service territory, including estimated restoration times, cause and the number of affected customers. In addition, customers can:
Are you prepared?
We work hard to keep you connected with safe and reliable electricity, but sometimes emergencies happen, and it is important for you to be prepared for a power outage.
We encourage you to be prepared by signing up for local and provincial alerts and have a plan with an emergency kit.
Power Outage Tips
When the lights go off, check your fuse and breaker first, then check with your neighbours.