Lightning, wind, rain, vehicle accidents, falling trees and short circuits are common causes for the power to go out.

Tips on what to do during a power outage:

• Keep a battery-operated flashlight available in working condition at all times. 
• Do not use candles for illumination.
  They can be fire hazards. 
• Turn off all unnecessary appliances that were in use when the power went out. Leave the water pump, furnace, refrigerator and freezer turned on. Turn off air-conditioning units. 
• Turn off all lights except one to signal you when power is restored.
• Keep the refrigerator and freezer closed to keep from losing the cold air. 
• Avoid flushing toilets or using excessive water if the home has its own water pump. Small amounts of water can be drawn periodically over a long period of time if the water
  system was at full pressure when the power went out. With a city water system, water will probably still be available in limited quantity when the power goes out. A toilet can be
  flushed manually by pouring a bucket of water directly into the stool.
• Make sure you have a phone that does not require electricity to operate. A phone that connects directly into your phone jack in the wall is one that does not need electricity to operate and is definitely a must to have. Limit telephone use during this time unless a public safety or medical emergency exists.
• If you are at home, stay there until the situation is over.
• Keep a battery-operated radio or TV handy to keep abreast of news about the situation.
• Use the fireplace or a natural gas heater (if the gas hasn't been turned off) for heating purposes--but not gas ovens.
• If you have an electrically-operated garage door opener, check to find out how to operate it manually.

If you're in a vehicle during a power outage, follow these important safety tips:

• Avoid unnecessary travel. Traffic signals may be out of service, resulting in traffic jams and unusually hazardous situations.
• STOP at all intersections, then proceed cautiously when traffic permits.
• STOP at all railroad crossings until you're sure the traffic is clear.
• Obey law enforcement officers who are directing traffic.
• If you have to pull off the roadway, use your emergency flashers to alert traffic.
• Watch out for pedestrians along darkened roadways.
• If you see any criminal activity, be a good witness and dial 9-1-1.