Calgary outage guide: the Enmax trouble line, what to do during an outage, the 48 hour food rule, downed line safety and a 72 hour kit.
- Report outages or downed lines to the Enmax Power Trouble Line at 403-514-6100, and call 911 for a downed line.
- If an outage lasts more than 48 hours, throw out all refrigerated food.
- Never use camp stoves, kerosene heaters or barbecues indoors.
We have not found any notice of a coming blackout in Calgary. When an outage does happen, these are the steps Enmax-related guidance gives.
Report it
Call the Enmax Power Trouble Line at 403-514-6100 to report an outage or a downed power line. For a downed line, call 911 immediately.
During an outage
- Ask neighbours if they have power. If only your home is affected, check the breaker panel or fuse box.
- Unplug or switch off appliances so they are not damaged when power returns, and leave one light on.
- Stay informed with a phone or a battery or wind-up radio.
- Do not use camp stoves, kerosene heaters or barbecues indoors: they produce carbon monoxide. See carbon monoxide safety.
Food
Open the fridge and freezer as little as possible. The guidance says if the outage lasts more than 48 hours, throw out all refrigerated food. See keeping food cold.
Downed power lines
Keep yourself, pets and others at least 10 metres (33 feet) away and assume lines are live. If your car is touching a line, stay inside unless it is on fire. See downed line safety.
After the outage
Turn on only the most essential appliances first, and wait 10 to 15 minutes before reconnecting others. Prepare ahead with a 72 hour kit, surge protectors and backup batteries. See the Alberta guide.
Backup power picks (Canada)
Size the unit to your own load first: see the sizing guide.
Quick comparison
| Brand | Best for |
|---|---|
| BBLUETTI | Large lineup, expandable home systems |
| JJackery | Wide range, compact to home backup sizes |
Power stations and solar generators with fast charging. Compare capacity and warranty.
Larger capacity power stations that can run a fridge, with expandable batteries.
- Broad capacity range
- Expandable home-backup options
- Compare battery chemistry and stated cycle life
Popular portable power stations and solar kits for short outages.
- Has a Canadian storeHas a US store
- Small, mid and large models
- Compare capacity, output and warranty on the maker page
Quick answers
Who do I call for a Calgary outage?
The Enmax Power Trouble Line at 403-514-6100. For a downed power line call 911.
How long is refrigerated food safe?
The guidance says to throw out all refrigerated food if an outage lasts more than 48 hours.
How far should I stay from a downed line?
At least 10 metres (33 feet), and assume it is live.