Ottawa outage guide: how to report an outage to Hydro Ottawa (app, text, phone), the 72 hour planning rule, and indoor safety rules.
- Report to Hydro Ottawa online, in the app, by texting OUT to 797688, or by calling 613-738-0188.
- Plan to run without power for at least 72 hours and review your kit every six months.
- Never use generators, grills or fuel burning appliances indoors.
We have not found any notice of a coming blackout in Ottawa. Hydro Ottawa's preparedness guidance gives a practical set of steps.
How to report an outage
- Report online or in the Hydro Ottawa mobile app.
- Text OUT to PWROUT (797688).
- Call the 24/7 outage line, 613-738-0188, as a last resort.
How long to plan for
Hydro Ottawa advises planning to run without power for at least 72 hours, and reviewing your emergency kit every six months. Our 72 hour checklist covers the items, and Ottawa's ice storm history makes the ice storm guide worth a read.
Kit basics
Flashlights, lanterns and batteries, a battery powered radio and phone chargers, first aid supplies, water and non perishable food, paper copies of contacts and cash for emergency purchases.
Safety rules
- Never use generators, grills or fuel burning appliances indoors.
- Use flashlights rather than candles.
- Avoid elevators and electrically powered doors during an outage.
- Call 9-1-1 for life threatening emergencies.
See the Ontario outage guide and apartment and condo prep.
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
How do I report an outage to Hydro Ottawa?
Online, in the app, by texting OUT to 797688, or by calling 613-738-0188 as a last resort.
How long should I prepare for?
Hydro Ottawa advises at least 72 hours.
Can I use a generator indoors?
No. Never use generators, grills or fuel burning appliances indoors.