Prepare for Outage
How We Restore Power
The ZBPW restores power first in order of priority by water supply facilities, hospitals and urgent care facilities, police and fire departments, waste water treatment plants and pumping stations, and ZBPW fuel supply. All other restoration not immediately involving public safety will then be scheduled to restore service to the largest number of customers within the shortest amount of time.
It’s Important To Note:
Life-Support Equipment: If you or someone in your home is dependent on some type of electrically operated life-support equipment, it is very important that the BPW be notified. Please call 616-772-6212 to receive a form to be completed to be placed on the life support list.
Planned Outages: The BPW will attempt to notify all of our customers in advance of any planned power outages that may affect them.
Repairs Due To Outages: The BPW is responsible for electrical repair to the mast or house knobs, the point where wires attach to the customer’s residence or business. Any electrical work required beyond the mast or house knobs is the responsibility of the customer. The meter is the ZBPW’s responsibility to maintain or repair. However, the equipment the meter attaches to is the owner’s responsibility.
What To Do When The Lights Go Out
Before reporting an outage, please check for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers. Check to see if your neighbors are out as well. That will help us determine the extent of the problem. If there appears to be an outage, take the following steps:
- Report power outages by calling the ZBPW at (616) 772-6212 or (616) 772-2001 (after hours emergency line).
- Unplug sensitive electronic equipment such as TVs and computers. As well as major appliances like refrigerators and freezers.
- Leave on a light switch so you will know when the power is restored and you can plug your refrigerator and freezer chest in again.
- Grab your emergency preparedness kit. We recommend having an emergency kit for the entire family ready to go in case the lights go out. Items to consider:
- Clean Drinking Water
- Non-Perishable Foods
- Flashlights
- Matches & Lighter
- First Aid Kit
- Pet Items
- Activities (cards, games, etc.)