Medication - If you use medication that requires refrigeration check with your physician or pharmacist about safe use in a power outage. An unopened refrigerator can go several hours without a significant temperature increase.
 

Computers - Keep files and operating systems backed up regularly. Turn off all computers, monitors, printers, copiers, scanners and other devices when they're not being used. If the power goes out, this equipment will have already been safely shut down. Get a high quality surge protector for all of your electronic equipment. 
 

Garage Door Openers - If you have an electric garage door opener, find out where the manual release lever is located and learn how to operate it. If you regularly use the garage as the primary means of entering your home be sure to keep a key to your house accessible in case the garage door will not open. 
 

Cordless Telephones - Cordless phones require electricity to work. Keep a corded telephone or full charged cell phone available for communication.
 

Remote Technology and Other Services - Servers for computer networks may not operate when the power is out where these systems are located. So even if you have power, your access to remote technology may be interrupted if the power that serves those areas is disrupted. Check with remote service providers to see if they have backup power systems, and how long those systems will operate. 
 

Gas for Your Car - Keep your tank at least half full. Gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. 
 

Conserve Energy - Follow energy conservation measures to keep the use of electricity as low as possible. This can help SELCO avoid imposing rolling blackouts in extreme conditions.