• Ensure your building is safe to occupy—Initially allow only essential, critical-operations staff into restricted areas. Ask your local or State health department for guidance on determining the safety of your building.
  • Decide whether to activate backup power—If your backup generator doesn’t automatically turn on during a power outage, you’ll have to determine when to activate backup systems. First determine whether power is likely to be restored within 24 hours. If not, you may want to activate those systems to protect your business assets.
  • Contact your fuel supplier—If you rely on fuel supplies for your business, vehicles, generators, and other equipment, contact your fuel supplier to confirm contractual arrangements during an emergency. Can your fuel supplier access your facility? Can it operate without power? You may need to contact a backup or out-of-region supplier if your normal supplier is unavailable due to the emergency.
  • Stay informed—Use cell phones, laptops, and other mobile devices to communicate with your utility companies, and to help you stay up to date on restoration efforts, weather forecasts, and other important information. Industry associations like the Automobile Association of America distribute information about gasoline and diesel fuel availability and prices, as does GasBuddy.com. Stay tuned also to local media reports, and for information from State and local government sources.
  • Ask for assistance—State and Federal organizations may offer assistance with disaster preparedness planning and recovery, loans, grants, and other resources.

Disclaimer: Because every emergency is different, it is important for your safety that you follow the directives of your state and local emergency management authorities and local utilities. The information provided on DOE's website is intended for general informational purposes only and is not an endorsement of any particular material or service. Before engaging in any activities that could impact utility services such as electricity or natural gas, contact your local utility to ensure that the activities are done safely.

For additional emergency-planning resources, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency's website, ready.gov. State and local emergency management authorities and local utilities may also provide helpful guidance.

Related Links

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA Publications
FEMA Disaster Assistance
Local Government Energy Assurance Planning (LEAP)
National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO)
National Response Framework
State and Local Energy Assurance Planning
New Reports & Other Materials
Quick Links to Featured Reports

Comments or Questions?

Email us at EnergyReady@hq.doe.gov.