In this article
Predict the effects of a winter outage on heat, care, water and travel, without waiting for an announced time to act.
The memory of ice as a starting point
The ice of January 1998 remains a benchmark of preparation in Quebec. Hydro-Québec describes the damage to the system and the improvements made since then. This historical return does not predict the duration of a future failure at an address.
Subsequent episodes remind us of the importance of trees, accesses and outbuildings. Prepare your needs from the current situation rather than assuming that an improved infrastructure excludes a prolonged interruption.
Before the difficult conditions
Charge useful devices, check battery-powered lighting and ways to track information. Write down contacts, medical needs and possible accommodation. Check weather alerts, road conditions and distributor information.
Plan for people who need help getting around or whose medical device depends on the power. The backup plan must be agreed with professionals and loved ones, without waiting for a battery to run out.
Staying warm without creating another danger
Never use a barbecue, camping stove or generator inside. A carbon monoxide alarm does not make these uses safe. Installed devices must be authorized for their intended use and properly maintained.
A generator operates outside, away from openings, according to the instructions and applicable rules. A connection to the building requires proper installation; do not plug a generator outlet into a wall outlet.
If the CO alarm sounds, go out immediately and call 911. Wait for the permission of the firefighters before returning home. Do not stay to look for the source.
Water, food and medicine
Keep an adequate supply of drinking water and follow any advice from the person in charge of the system or the instructions for the well. The presence of a filter does not allow to ignore a restriction.
Limit refrigerator and freezer openings and apply food sorting instructions after failure. For medicines whose preservation is uncertain, contact the pharmacist quickly for the conduct to be maintained; do not change the treatment alone.
When to Leave the Housing
The duration of failure is not the only criterion. If security is compromised or if requested by the authorities, go to a safe place. Learn about open municipal services and report assistance needs.
Avoid falling wires, branches and dangerous movements. After the power returns, check the recommissioning needs, replace the used supplies and correct the plan. The reserve facilitates waiting; it does not justify staying in danger.
Sources and Updates
Documentary verification: November 3, 2026.