What to Do During a Power
Outage in Los Angeles

By Amy, Licensed C-10 Electrician · 15+ years serving Los Angeles

Outages are a fact of life in LA, especially during fire-season PSPS events. A calm, prepared response keeps your household safe and minimizes disruption.

Published: 2026-04-15 · Updated: 2026-06-20

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Safety Guide

What to Do During a Power Outage in Los Angeles

Outages hit LA from heat waves, Santa Ana winds, and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). Knowing what to do keeps your family safe and your food protected until power returns.

Check the scope

See if neighbors are out. If just your home is dark, it may be a tripped main breaker - call us before assuming it's the utility.

Report it

Report the outage to LADWP (or SCE) so they can dispatch a crew. Sign up for outage alerts.

Unplug sensitive electronics

Power surges when service returns can damage TVs and computers. Leave one light on so you know when power is back.

Keep the fridge closed

A full freezer stays cold ~48 hours; a half-full one about 24. Avoid opening it unnecessarily.

Be Prepared

If You Rely on Power for Medical Needs

⚠

Medical Equipment

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Backup Power

A properly installed generator with a transfer switch keeps essentials running safely - never backfeed a generator into an outlet.

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Emergency Kit

Keep flashlights, batteries, water, and a charged power bank ready before fire-season shutoffs.

Questions

Power Outage FAQ

Should I call the electrician or the utility first? ▾

If neighbors have power, it's likely your panel or service drop - call us. If the whole block is out, report it to LADWP/SCE first.

Is it safe to use a generator during an outage? ▾

Yes, if it's outdoors and connected through a transfer switch. Never run one indoors or backfeed a wall outlet - that risks electrocution and fires.

How long will my food stay safe? ▾

A closed freezer keeps food safe about 48 hours (24 if half full). Refrigerated food should be discarded after 4 hours without power.

Why does my power flicker during wind events? ▾

Utilities trigger PSPS events and automatic reclosers during high-wind conditions to prevent wildfire ignition. Persistent flicker at home may also signal a loose connection - worth an inspection.

Can I prevent outage disruption? ▾

A standby generator with automatic transfer, plus surge protection at the panel, dramatically reduces outage impact for LA homes.

Need a Licensed Electrician in Los Angeles?

Get a free estimate from AMY Electric's C-10 certified team. Call today or request a quote online.