Most power outages are isolated to a specific building. In most cases the power resumes in a few minutes. Campus-wide power outages are extremely rare. Unless there is an imminent threat to your safety (i.e. fire, smoke), it is unless best to stay in place during an outage until the power is restored.
In the event of a major power outage/utility failure:
- Remain calm.
- Contact Facilities Services at (716) 878-6111, 24 hours a day.
Evacuate the building if the fire alarm sounds and/or directed by University Police.
A major power outage may not in itself be destructive, but a possible resulting panic or fire could endanger life and property. Panic can be partially avoided by an immediate decision on the need to cancel classes or meetings in progress or to evacuate the building.
In laboratory buildings, fume hoods do not operate during a power outage and most laboratories should not be used until the ventilation is properly restored.