During winter, we're never safe from a prolonged power outage. How can we prepare for this eventuality? 

On its website, Hydro-Québec shares a series of tips to keep your household comfortable during this unplanned interruption: 

- Recharge batteries in electronic devices in advance, so you can use them for work or entertainment during the service interruption.

- Remember to download movies, music or work/study documents before the interruption, as home modems require a power supply to ensure connection to the Internet; 

- To maintain the temperature of the fridge or freezer, plan snacks for which you won't have to open the appliance doors; 

- Make a list of emergency numbers in advance, including the Hydro-Québec number (1 800 790-2424) to call to report an outage; 

- Carry a battery-powered radio or a portable charger for a mobile device, so that in the event of a major power outage, you can monitor the situation on the Outages in Progress map or via the mobile application; 

- Prepare an emergency kit and keep it in an easily accessible place. Check its contents regularly to make sure it's always complete and in working order; 

- Keep a battery-powered flashlight in your emergency kit to avoid using candles - they can be a fire hazard; 

- Plan for a backup power source or temporary lodging if someone in your home needs a life-support device;

- Download the Hydro-Québec application to track power outages and receive notifications of them.