Electric Service Safety
Puget Sound Energy wants you to stay safe around electricity at all times. Be sure to familiarize yourself with our basic electrical safety information so you're prepared in case of an emergency.
Key Safety Tips
Downed Lines
Stay away from downed power lines and anything downed lines may be touching.
Report fallen wires immediately to your utility. PSE customers should call 1-888-225-5773. (PSE customers may call the same number to report power outages and to receive restoration-time estimates.)
Portable Generators and Power Outages
If using a portable generator, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Disconnect house circuits by pulling or switching to "off" all main fuses or circuit breakers. Connect lights and appliances directly to the generator, not to an existing electrical system. Always operate generators outdoors to avoid dangerous buildup of toxic fumes.
During a power outage, turn off lights and unplug appliances and sensitive electronic devices like computers to prevent an electrical surge when power is restored. Leave one light switch on to let you know when service returns.
Some natural gas appliances can operate without electricity, enabling you to bathe and cook during a power outage. Here's what works if the electricity goes out:
- most natural gas water heaters
- gas logs
- natural-gas barbecues
- cooktop range (Cooktops with electronic ignitions will need to be lighted by a match.)