How to Prepare for a Power Outage

Power outages are becoming more common with severe weather and heat waves. Preparing takes an afternoon and a modest budget.

Step by step

1. Build a basic kit

   Flashlights or headlamps, extra batteries, a battery or hand-crank radio, a first aid kit and power banks.

2. Store water

   Keep at least one gallon per person per day for several days, plus water for pets.

3. Stock non-perishable food

   Canned goods, crackers, nut butter and other foods that need no cooking. Include a manual can opener.

4. Plan for medical needs

   If anyone depends on powered medical equipment, have a backup power plan and tell your utility; many offer priority programs.

5. Protect electronics

   Unplug sensitive devices during the outage to avoid damage from surges when power returns.

6. Know your home

   Learn how to manually open your garage door and where your main breaker and water shutoff are.

7. Stay informed

   Sign up for your utility's outage alerts and keep phones charged when severe weather is forecast.

Food safety during an outage

Discard perishable foods that have been above 40 °F for more than two hours. When in doubt, throw it out.

Backup power options

• Power banks and portable power stations for phones, lights and routers.
• Portable generators for refrigerators and essentials — outdoors only, with proper transfer equipment for home circuits.
• Home batteries with solar for automatic, silent backup.