With a severe storm expected to bring rain and/or snow, freezing rain and ice pellets into the area, Utilities Kingston offers these safety tips to help protect your property and ensure public safety.  Customers concerned about the safety of a utility serviced by Utilities Kingston can call the 24-hour line at 613-546-1181.

Know what to do in case of a storm 

Severe weather can cause power outages and downed power lines, as well as put your basement at risk of flooding.  Review the resources listed below and learn how to be prepared.

In case of power outages

Utilities Kingston is available 24 hours a day to respond to power outages in the Kingston Hydro electricity distribution area. Phone 24/7 at 613-546-1181. If you require electricity service in the west or east areas of the city, contact Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235.

If you see a downed power line or tree branch that has fallen on a power line, always assume it's energized and dangerous. Stay away and report it immediately by calling 613-546-1181.

Portable standby generators, when used properly, can provide an alternative power source until conventional power is restored. However, they can create electrical shock and fire hazards if connected or used incorrectly. In addition, you should never operate a generator inside your home or garage. Generators produce carbon monoxide, and if used indoors will cause a build-up of fatal fumes - fans or open windows and doors won't provide enough fresh air to keep you and your family safe.  Get more information on safely using this equipment from our web page about power outage emergencies.

Protect your property from basement flooding 

During periods of heavy rain, any home is at risk of flooding, even if it’s never happened before:

• Check your sump pump for proper operation and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. For example, you may wish to:
  • Confirm it’s plugged in and working properly.
  • Check for any frozen lines that need to be thawed.
  • Consider an extra length of hose to increase the distance at which it discharges away from your foundation.
  • Consider, if your sump pump drains to the surface, the discharge point may be buried under ice. Uncover it and clear a path so the water drains away from your foundation. Otherwise, water may recycle back into your basement.
• Check your back water valve and maintain it according to the manufacturer’s directions. For example, if you can do so safely, you may wish to open the lid, clean it out, confirm there is a good seal in place and test its operation.
• Ensure your downspouts are clear of ice so water can route safely away. Shovel a path for the water to run well away from the foundation, or consider an extra length of pipe. (Stay safe: keep on the look-out for icicles that have formed and may fall from your eaves.)
• If you know that a catch basin on your street is covered in ice, we’d appreciate if you could take some time to clear it. This will help make sure that rainwater can enter the storm sewer and promotes good drainage away from your neighbourhood. 
• Get 18 flood facts and tips to protect your property
• Know what to do if your basement has flooded 
  First and foremost, consider your family’s health and safety. Entering a wet basement could be hazardous! When in doubt, don’t enter the flooded area until you are told it is safe by a professional qualified to do so.

Keep ice away from utility equipment 

• Keep gas and electrical meters clear: Although your outdoor gas meter is designed to withstand winter weather, heavy or hard-packed snow and ice can be a safety hazard. Keep ice from building up on and covering both your gas and electric meters. Gently keep this equipment cleared using a broom.
• Keep outside exhaust vents (such as for gas-fired furnaces and water heaters) cleared of snow or ice.
• Prevent water from freezing around electrical lines:  Never attempt to clear ice from around electrical lines yourself (Utilities Kingston customers: call 613-546-1181 if you are concerned).  Keep your eaves troughs free of debris so water runs safely away before it freezes. Ice can build up where overhead electrical service wires attach to your home—a dangerous and costly situation. Consider that the root of the problem may be poor attic insulation.

 Get more tips on winter safety.