What To Do In Case of a Power Outage

Surviving a power outage comfortably and safely depends on preparation and situational awareness. Here are the best ways to manage and survive a power outage, whether it lasts a few hours or several days:

 Before a Power Outage (Preparation)

1. Emergency Supplies Kit:
   • Flashlights (with extra batteries)
   • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
   • First-aid kit
   • Power banks for phones
   • Cash (ATMs may be down)
2. Food & Water:
   • Non-perishable food (canned goods, protein bars, dry snacks)
   • Manual can opener
   • 1 gallon of water per person per day (3-day minimum)
3. Backup Power:
   • Portable generator (only use outdoors)
   • Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for critical electronics
   • Solar chargers or power stations
4. Know Your Home:
   • Learn how to manually open garage doors
   • Know how to shut off gas/water if needed
   • Install surge protectors
5. Communications:
   • Keep your phone charged and have emergency contacts written down
   • Sign up for local emergency alerts

During a Power Outage

1. Stay Informed:
   • Use a battery-powered or crank radio to get updates
   • Monitor phone alerts if you still have service
2. Preserve Food:
   • Keep refrigerator/freezer closed—food stays safe in a full freezer for ~48 hours
   • Use a cooler with ice if outage is prolonged
3. Stay Warm/Cool:
   • In winter: Layer clothes, use blankets, close off unused rooms
   • In summer: Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, open windows for ventilation (if safe)
4. Use Power Wisely:
   • Use generators safely—NEVER indoors or near windows
   • Only plug in essentials
5. Avoid Carbon Monoxide Risks:
   • No gas stoves, charcoal grills, or propane heaters indoors
   • Ensure proper ventilation

 If You’re in an Urban Area

• Be aware of security risks in the dark—keep doors locked
• Avoid elevators
• Stay off roads unless necessary (traffic signals may be out)

After the Power Returns

1. Check Food Safety:
   • When in doubt, throw it out (especially perishable items that got above 40°F for more than 2 hours)
2. Inspect Appliances:
   • Make sure they’re working properly before turning everything back on
3. Replenish Supplies:
   • Restock anything used (batteries, food, water, etc.)