Published: September 9, 2026
Summary
- Moving out means taking on new responsibilities, including electrical safety. Safe habits can help prevent common hazards
- Be prepared for your first power outage by knowing where to find information and who to contact in an emergency
- Know the warning signs of electrical hazards and stay at least 10 metres away from downed powerlines
Heading to college, university or your first apartment this fall? Along with classes, grocery shopping and budgeting, you'll also be responsible for keeping yourself safe at home.
From navigating your first power outage to safely charging all the devices that come with student life, here are a few electrical safety tips every student should know when living on your own.
1. Don't overload outlets.❌
When you move into residence or a shared apartment, it's tempting to plug everything into one convenient outlet. But plugging too many devices into the same outlet or power bar can create a fire risk.
To help stay safe:
- Spread devices across multiple outlets when possible
- Use approved power bars with built-in surge protection
- Unplug devices you're not using
- Never plug one power bar into another
2. Extension cords aren’t permanent solutions.🔌
In residence rooms and student rentals, outlets never seem to be where you need them. While extension cords can help temporarily, they're not intended for long-term use.
Remember:
- Never run cords under rugs, carpets or furniture
- Don't pinch cords behind beds or desks
- Don’t connect multiple extension cords together
- Replace damaged cords immediately
3. Know what to do during a power outage.💡
Experiencing a power outage on your own for the first time can be frustrating, especially if you're studying for exams or trying to meet a deadline.
Before an outage happens:
- Keep your phone charged when severe weather is expected and have a portable charger handy
- Keep a flashlight and extra batteries on hand
- Save important emergency contacts in your phone
- Bookmark our Outage Hub for the latest outage information
- Sign up for text and/or email outage notifications
- Download our Emergency Preparedness Guide and prepare your 72-hour emergency kit
During an outage:
- Check our outage map for the latest updates
- Report the outage online or by calling us at 416-542-8000 (press 1) if it hasn't already been reported
- Unplug sensitive electronics to help protect them from power surges when electricity is restored
- Use flashlights instead of candles whenever possible
4. Be smart about overnight charging.🌙
Phones, laptops, e-bikes and portable battery packs are part of daily student life.
To reduce fire risks:
- Charge devices on hard, flat surfaces
- Keep chargers away from bedding and upholstered furniture
- Allow batteries to cool if they become hot
- Stop using any battery that is swollen, leaking or damaged
- Always use manufacturer-approved or certified (CSA or ULC) batteries and chargers designed specifically for your device
5. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.⏰
This may not be the most exciting parts of moving, but it could be one of the most important.
When you move in:
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly or ensure you are maintaining a regular schedule to test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Ensure alarms are working properly and notify your landlord or property manager if they aren't
- Never disconnect or disable an alarm
It only takes a few moments to complete these checks, but it could make all the difference in an emergency.
6. Get to know your new space.🏠
Every home is different, and knowing a few basics can help you respond quickly during an emergency.
Take time to learn:
- Where your electrical panel is located
- How to get in contact with your landlord or building manager
- Emergency exit routes, and know where your first aid kits and AEDs are located
- Important emergency and utility phone numbers
- Where the nearest flashlight is kept
7. Report electrical hazards and safety concerns.⚠️
As you settle into a new neighbourhood, keep an eye out for electrical hazards. Reporting issues quickly can help keep everyone safe.
Examples of hazards to report include:
- Damaged or leaning utility poles
- Low-hanging or damaged powerlines
- Graffiti or vandalism on Toronto Hydro equipment
- Open or damaged electrical equipment
If you see an electrical hazard or problem involving Toronto Hydro equipment, quickly and easily report it to us online.
8. Stay far away from downed powerlines.⚡
If you see a downed powerline, always assume it's energized and dangerous. Stay back at least 10 metres (about the length of a school bus) and call us immediately at 416-542-8000 (press 1) or dial 911. Never try to touch or move a powerline!
Welcome to adulting!
A little preparation goes a long way. By building safe habits now, you'll be better equipped to handle the responsibilities of independent living so you can focus on classes, new experiences and making the most of your school year.