To prepare effectively for a power outage, follow these key steps:
Essential Supplies and Equipment
- Keep flashlights or battery-powered lanterns and spare batteries readily accessible; avoid using mobile phone flashlights to conserve battery life
- Assemble an emergency kit with non-perishable food, bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day), a first aid kit, necessary medications, and sanitation supplies
- Have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive updates during the outage
- Keep coolers and ice packs ready to preserve perishable food if the outage lasts more than a few hours
- Charge mobile phones and have portable chargers or power banks available
Safety and Equipment Management
- Unplug electrical appliances and sensitive electronics to avoid damage from power surges when electricity is restored
- Leave one light switched on to signal when power returns
- Do not use candles due to fire risk; use flashlights instead
- If using a generator, operate it outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
Planning and Communication
- Know your utility company’s emergency contact number and how to report outages
- Develop a household emergency plan including evacuation routes, communication methods, and support networks for vulnerable family members
- If you rely on electrically powered medical devices or refrigerated medications, consult your healthcare provider for a power outage plan
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup
Food and Water Safety
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed to maintain cold temperatures; a refrigerator can keep food cold for about 4 hours, and a full freezer for about 48 hours
- Use a thermometer to monitor food temperatures and discard any food above 40°F (4°C)
Additional Tips
- Avoid using gas stoves or ovens for heating
- Prepare entertainment and comfort items such as games, books, warm clothing, and LED candles
- Keep a paper copy of important phone numbers and emergency information in an easy-to-find place
By assembling supplies, managing electrical devices safely, planning communication, and ensuring food and medical safety, you can minimize the impact of a power outage on your household
