Alabama power outage checklist
Alabama storms can knock out power for hours or days. Use this checklist before, during and after an outage. Always follow guidance from your own utility and local emergency management.
Before storm season
- Sign up for your utility’s outage alerts. Alabama Power offers text, email or phone alerts (Alabama Power).
- Save the outage-reporting number and outage map link on your phone (below).
- List the loads you must keep running (fridge, sump pump, medical equipment, router) and total them with the wattage chart and generator size calculator.
- Charge power banks and any portable power station; fill vehicle fuel tanks.
- Install battery-powered or battery-backup carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas (CDC).
- Keep a battery or hand-crank weather radio; see NOAA Weather Radio.
- Learn about the Alabama storm shelter tax credit if you’re considering a shelter (Alabama EMA; Alabama Dept. of Revenue).
When the power goes out: report it
For Alabama Power customers (source, source):
- Call 1-800-888-2726.
- Text OUT to 272688 (APCOUT); text STATUS to the same number for an update.
- Report online or in the Alabama Power app, and check the outage map.
Served by a co-op or municipal utility instead? Use the number on your bill. Numbers and processes can change — confirm on your utility’s site.
During the outage
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. A fridge keeps food safe about 4 hours; a full freezer about 48 hours (24 if half full) (FoodSafety.gov).
- Run generators outside only, more than 20 feet from windows, doors and vents; never in a garage or basement, even with doors open (CDC).
- Never use a charcoal grill, camp stove or lantern indoors (CDC, same page).
- Treat downed lines as live and stay away; report them to your utility.
- Limit phone use to save battery; text instead of calling.
- Start with essentials only — use the calculators to see what your generator or power station can handle.
After power returns
- Evaluate refrigerated food item by item using the FoodSafety.gov chart; when in doubt, throw it out.
- Turn big appliances back on one at a time to avoid a surge on the circuit.
- Restock fuel, water and batteries; note what worked for next time.