How to Prepare for an Extended Power Outage

A power outage can be inconvenient for a few hours, but an extended outage can affect food, water, communication, temperature control, medication, work, and daily routines. Severe weather, utility equipment damage, accidents, and other disruptions can all lead to power loss that lasts longer than expected. 

Preparing in advance can reduce stress when the lights go out. The goal is not to plan for every possible scenario or buy expensive equipment. A few practical supplies, a household communication plan, and safe backup options can make a major difference. 

Key Takeaways

• Prepare for extended outages with water, shelf-stable food, lighting, batteries, medications, and basic first-aid supplies. 
• Make a household plan for communication, pets, food safety, medical needs, and local emergency resources. 
• Generators can help some households, but they may be too expensive, impractical, or restricted for others. 
• Know when conditions require leaving home for a safer location, such as a cooling or warming center. 

Why Is It Important to Prepare for a Long Power Outage?

A short outage may only interrupt lights and internet service. A longer outage can create more serious challenges, especially during extreme heat, cold weather, storms, or other emergencies. 

Without electricity, households may lose access to: 

• Refrigeration and cooking appliances  
• Heating, air conditioning, or fans  
• Wi-Fi, charging, and some communication tools  
• Medical devices that require power  
• Water pumps or electric well systems  
• Elevators, garage doors, and building access systems 

Preparation is especially important for households with young children, older adults, pets, people who use powered medical equipment, or anyone who depends on refrigerated medication. If you have medical or mobility needs, speak with your health care provider, equipment supplier, building manager, or local emergency resources about a plan specific to your situation. 

What Should You Keep in a Power-Outage Emergency Kit?

Keep supplies together in a labeled bin, backpack, or cabinet that everyone in the household can access. 

Basic supplies may include: 

• Flashlights and extra batteries  
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio  
• Portable phone chargers or power banks  
• Drinking water and shelf-stable food  
• Manual can opener and basic utensils  
• First-aid supplies and necessary medications  
• Blankets, weather-appropriate clothing, and rain gear  
• Pet food, water, leashes, carriers, and medication  
• Copies of important contacts and documents  
• Cleaning supplies, trash bags, and personal-hygiene items 

For a more detailed checklist and guidance on organizing emergency supplies, see Build a 72-Hour Emergency Kit with Essentials and a Family Plan. 

Review the kit once or twice a year. Replace expired food, medications, batteries, and seasonal items as needed. 

How Can You Make a Household Power-Outage Plan?

A simple plan can help everyone know what to do when an outage begins. Talk through the basics before an emergency happens. 

Apartment and condo residents should also ask how an extended outage may affect building access, elevators, water, parking, and common areas. 

How Can You Keep Food and Water Safe During an Outage?

Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A closed refrigerator generally keeps food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can hold its temperature longer than a partially full freezer. If you are unsure whether food stayed at a safe temperature, follow local public-health guidance and discard questionable items. 

Before an outage, consider freezing water containers or ice packs to help keep a cooler cold. For medication that must remain chilled, follow storage instructions from a pharmacist or health care provider. 

Store enough drinking water for your household, including pets. If water service is disrupted, conserve clean water for drinking, food preparation, medications, and basic hygiene. Follow local guidance about boil-water notices or other water-safety instructions. 

Should You Use a Generator During a Power Outage?

A generator can provide backup electricity for some households, but it is not an option for everyone. Generators can be expensive to purchase and maintain, may not be practical for apartment residents, and may be restricted by local rules, HOA guidelines, rental agreements, or neighborhood noise requirements. 

Portable power banks, battery-operated lights, coolers with ice packs, extra blankets, community resources, and a temporary relocation plan can also help households manage an outage. 

If you use a generator: 

• Operate it outdoors only, far from doors, windows, and vents.  
• Never use it in a garage, basement, shed, or enclosed space.  
• Follow manufacturer instructions for fuel, extension cords, and maintenance.  
• Use working carbon monoxide alarms inside your home.  
• Never connect a portable generator directly to household wiring unless appropriate equipment has been installed by a qualified professional. 

How Can You Stay Safe and Comfortable Without Electricity?

During hot weather, close blinds or curtains, drink water regularly, wear lightweight clothing, and seek a cooling center or other public location if conditions become unsafe. During cold weather, dress in layers, close off unused rooms, and use blankets or sleeping bags to retain body heat. 

Never use an oven, grill, camp stove, or fuel-burning heater indoors for warmth or cooking unless it is specifically designed and approved for indoor use. Use flashlights instead of candles whenever possible. 

If indoor temperatures become unsafe, medical needs cannot be supported, or local officials issue evacuation or shelter guidance, leave for a safer location. This may mean staying with trusted contacts or using an approved public shelter or community center. 

What Should You Do When Power Returns?

When electricity returns, turn appliances and electronics back on gradually to help avoid overloading circuits. Check refrigerated and frozen food before using it, and discard anything that may not have remained at a safe temperature. 

Restock the water, batteries, medications, and other supplies used during the outage. Take note of what worked well and update your household plan for the next disruption. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Power Outages

How much water should I keep for an extended outage? 

A common emergency-planning guideline is at least one gallon of water per person per day, with additional water for pets and special needs. Your household may need more depending on climate, health needs, and local water access. 

What should I do first when the power goes out? 

Check whether the outage affects only your home or the surrounding area, report it to your utility provider if appropriate, and avoid opening refrigerators or freezers unnecessarily. Unplug sensitive electronics when possible to help protect them from power surges. 

Can I use my car to charge devices during an outage? 

Some vehicles can charge phones or small devices, but follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidance. Never run a vehicle in an enclosed garage or poorly ventilated area. 

What should I do if the outage affects medical equipment? 

Follow your personal backup plan and contact your health care provider, equipment supplier, emergency services, or local emergency-management resources as appropriate. Do not wait until equipment stops working to seek help. 

Prepare Now for Greater Peace of Mind

An extended power outage is easier to manage when you have supplies, a plan, and safe backup options ready before you need them. Start with a basic emergency kit, talk through household needs, and update your plan as seasons or circumstances change. 

If you need room to organize emergency supplies, seasonal gear, or extra household items, find a Public Storage location near you to explore self-storage options in your area.