Power outages are more than just an inconvenience—they can be dangerous and even life-threatening. In recent years, the U.S. has experienced an alarming increase in power disruptions. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average duration of power outages per customer has nearly doubled over the past decade. Severe weather events, aging infrastructure, and increased energy demand have all contributed to these prolonged blackouts. In fact, Texas, California, and Florida are among the top states with the highest number of power outages.

Are you prepared to handle an extended outage? Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or just beginning your home preparedness journey, these 10 power outage survival tips will help keep you safe, comfortable, and prepared for the unexpected.

Power Outage Tip #1: Stock Up on Non-Perishable Food Supplies

A prolonged power outage means your usual grocery runs may not be possible. That’s why emergency preparedness includes having a well-stocked pantry of non-perishable foods. Think about the size of your family, including pets, and set aside at least three days’ worth of food per person in a designated emergency storage bin. However, we recommend stocking up for at least a week, as many outages last longer than anticipated.

Best Non-Perishable Foods for Emergency Preparedness:

• Canned goods (soups, vegetables, beans, meats, and fish)
• Freeze-dried meals (long shelf life and lightweight for storage)
• Rice and pasta (store in airtight containers to prevent pests)
• Peanut butter and nuts (great for protein and energy)
• Dried fruits (a good source of fiber and vitamins)
• Powdered milk (essential for nutrition, especially for children)
• Shelf-stable protein bars and granola
• Honey and salt (last indefinitely and are useful for multiple purposes)

Additionally, make sure to use your fridge and freezer wisely – A refrigerator without power will keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer will stay cold for up to 48 hours if left closed. A deep freezer provides even longer protection, especially if kept shut tightly. To maximize cold retention, consider freezing jugs of water in advance, which can help maintain low temperatures longer.

Power Outage Tip #2: Secure a Backup Power Source

When the grid goes down, having a backup power solution is critical. A home generator—whether gas or solar—can keep essential appliances and medical devices running. Solar generators are an excellent choice for long-term emergency preparedness, as they don’t rely on fuel and can provide sustainable power during extended outages. On the other hand, gas generators can power your home quickly but require proper ventilation and fuel storage.

Solar Generators vs. Gas Generators: Pros and Cons

Plan B and Plan C: Always Have a Backup for Your Backup

Preparedness means not relying on a single solution. Extreme weather, fuel shortages, or mechanical failures can render one generator useless. Having multiple power options—such as a combination of solar, gas, and battery backups—ensures you always have a plan B and plan C. With extreme weather events on the rise, a reliable home backup generator is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Power Outage Tip #3: Store an Emergency Water Supply

A power outage can disrupt water systems, especially if your home relies on an electric pump. For home preparedness, store at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day for a minimum of three days. Preppers recommend a week’s supply to be extra safe. Additionally, keep extra water for washing and sanitation needs.

If you use well water, power loss can cut off your supply entirely. Have a plan in place, whether it’s storing water in five-gallon refillable jugs or investing in a gravity-fed filtration system.

How to Store Emergency Water Properly:

• Use food-grade water containers – Look for BPA-free plastic or glass containers that are designed for long-term water storage.
• Sanitize water storage containers – Wash them with soap and water, then sanitize with a solution of one teaspoon of unscented bleach per quart of water before filling.
• Rotate stored water every six months – Even properly stored water can become stale or contaminated over time.
• Store in a cool, dark place – Keep water away from direct sunlight and chemicals to prevent contamination.
• Emergency disinfection – If water becomes questionable, treat it with unscented household bleach (8 drops per gallon) and let it sit for 30 minutes before use.

Additionally, having a backup filtration system, such as a gravity-fed water filter, can provide clean drinking water if your stored supply runs low.

Power Outage Tip #4: Have a Plan for Medical Needs

When preparing for emergencies, it’s crucial to ensure you and your loved ones are fully stocked and ready for medical needs. If you or a family member rely on refrigerated medications or medical devices, plan ahead to address these specific requirements. A power outage could disrupt your access to essential equipment, so having a backup power source for critical devices like ventilators, oxygen concentrators, or dialysis machines is vital. In addition to a backup generator or battery-powered alternatives, it’s important to have a cooling solution for temperature-sensitive medications like insulin, which requires refrigeration to remain effective.

Stocking up on vital prescriptions and over-the-counter medications is also a key part of any preparedness plan. We recommend keeping a well-rounded emergency supply that includes the following:

• Antibiotics: Have a supply of common antibiotics to address infections.
• Insulin: If you or a loved one has diabetes, ensure you have enough insulin to last through an extended power outage.
• Rescue inhalers: If anyone in your home has asthma, ensure you have a sufficient supply of rescue inhalers to manage breathing emergencies.
• Pain and fever medications: Medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin can help alleviate discomfort during an emergency.
• Diarrhea and GI medications: Having anti-diarrheal medication and other gastrointestinal relief options on hand is essential.
• Wound care supplies: Stock up on bandages, antiseptics, and dressings to manage any injuries that may arise.
• Cold and flu medications: Be prepared with over-the-counter options to manage symptoms of colds and flu during flu season.
• Skin and allergy treatments: Allergy medications, such as antihistamines, and skin treatments for rashes or insect bites should be readily available.

Additionally, it’s recommended to create a medication list with dosages and instructions to ensure that everyone in your household knows what medications are needed and when to take them. You may also want to consider talking to your healthcare provider about obtaining extra prescriptions or over-the-counter medications in advance. Emergency preparedness isn’t just about physical supplies; it’s about ensuring that your family can continue to receive the medical care they need during an emergency. By taking these essential steps, you can safeguard your household’s health, comfort, and safety, even during unexpected disruptions like power outages.

Power Outage Tip #5: Keep a Full Gas Tank

In emergency situations, especially during widespread power outages, gas stations may become inoperable due to their reliance on electricity to pump fuel. This can lead to fuel shortages and make it difficult to refuel your vehicle when you need it most. To avoid being caught without fuel during an emergency, it’s essential to keep your car’s gas tank at least half full at all times. This ensures that you have enough fuel in your vehicle to manage during an unexpected event.

If an evacuation becomes necessary, having a full tank will allow you to drive at least 200–300 miles without needing to stop for fuel. Depending on where you live and the distance between your home and evacuation routes, this could be a critical factor in making it to safety in a timely manner. In some areas, fuel supplies may be limited for days or even weeks, so having a full tank ensures you can make it to a safer location or wait out the emergency without the added concern of running low on gas.

In addition to keeping your vehicle’s gas tank full, preparedness experts also recommend storing extra gasoline in approved, safe fuel containers. If you have the space and ability to do so, storing fuel allows you to top off your tank or use it for other essential equipment, such as generators or power tools, during an emergency. However, it’s important to follow safety guidelines for storing gasoline, as it is highly flammable. Use only approved fuel containers, keep them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat sources, and ensure that they are clearly labeled. Rotating your fuel supply is also important to ensure that it remains fresh and usable over time. Properly stored gasoline can be a lifesaver if you’re ever faced with an extended power outage or natural disaster.

Power Outage Tip #6: Cook Safely Without Power

During a power outage, cooking can become a challenge, but if you have a gas stove, you may still be able to cook, depending on whether the stove’s ignition system relies on electricity. If your stove has an electric ignition, you might need to use matches or a lighter to manually light the burners. In the event you don’t have a gas stove or your stove isn’t functional, there are other options to ensure you can prepare meals during an emergency.

Gas-powered grills or camping stoves are excellent alternatives for emergency cooking. These portable options run on propane or other fuels and can provide a steady heat source when needed. However, it’s important to always use them outdoors in a well-ventilated area to avoid the buildup of harmful carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled. Never use a gas-powered stove or grill inside your home, garage, or enclosed space, even if the windows are open.

Being prepared with a range of food options and cooking tools can make a big difference in maintaining comfort and nutrition during a power outage.

Power Outage Tip #7: Stock Up on Lights and Batteries

When the power goes out, having reliable lighting sources is essential for safety and comfort. While it’s tempting to rely on your phone’s flashlight, it’s important to have alternative lighting options that don’t drain your phone’s battery. Keeping a supply of battery-powered lanterns, flashlights, and extra batteries in easily accessible locations ensures you’re prepared for an emergency, especially in the dark of night or during long power outages.

Battery-powered lanterns are a great option for providing ambient light throughout the home. They’re often brighter and more effective for lighting up large areas compared to smaller flashlights. Flashlights, on the other hand, are essential for more focused lighting, whether for navigating your home or making sure you can access specific items. It’s also wise to keep headlamps on hand for hands-free lighting, allowing you to move around while keeping your hands free for tasks.

When storing lighting options, consider keeping them in locations where you can easily grab them in an emergency. Think about areas like:

• Bedroom drawers for quick access when needed in the night.
• Closets near entryways for grabbing before stepping outside.
• Emergency kits in the car or emergency go-bags.

In addition to these lighting tools, you’ll need plenty of extra batteries to ensure they last throughout the outage. Batteries are often used up quickly during prolonged power outages, so keeping a large stash in various sizes (AA, AAA, D, etc.) is critical.

Candles can be used for emergency lighting, but they should only be a last resort, as they can be a fire hazard. Always supervise candles while they’re burning, and ensure they’re placed in safe, stable locations away from flammable materials.

Simple and Practical Tips for Stocking Up on Lights and Batteries:

• Keep extra batteries for flashlights and lanterns in several different sizes, and ensure they’re stored in a cool, dry place.
• Buy high-quality, long-lasting batteries that are designed for heavy use during emergencies (e.g., lithium batteries).
• Opt for rechargeable lights like LED lanterns that can be recharged with a power bank or car charger if the grid is down.
• Keep a headlamp for hands-free use while performing tasks that require light, such as cooking or searching for items.
• Invest in solar-powered lights: These can be charged during the day and provide light at night without needing batteries or electricity.
• Organize your lights and batteries in a clear, labeled box or container for easy access when you need them most.
• Test all your lights regularly to ensure they work and to avoid discovering they’re broken or out of batteries during an outage.
• Have candles on hand, but always use them under supervision and keep them away from anything flammable, such as curtains or paper.

By preparing a variety of lighting solutions and ensuring an ample supply of batteries, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you can navigate through any power outage safely and efficiently.

Power Outage Tip #8: Plan Your Escape Route

Power outages can often be a precursor to bigger emergencies, making it essential to have a clear and practiced evacuation plan. Knowing when to evacuate is just as important as the plan itself. Set specific conditions for evacuation, such as:

• Three days without power: If the outage extends this long, it may be time to leave.
• Severe storms: If weather conditions worsen or threaten your safety, evacuate.
• Other dangerous situations: Flooding or fires may require immediate action.

Once you’ve established evacuation criteria, make sure everyone in the entire household knows where to go. Whether it’s a nearby relative’s house, a community shelter, or lcoal park, having a destination ready will save time in the chaos of an emergency.

When preparing for an evacuation, one of the most important steps is ensuring you have a Go-Bag packed and ready to grab at a moment’s notice. A Go-Bag is a portable, pre-packed emergency kit containing essential items you’ll need to survive for at least 72 hours. It can be a lifesaver during an evacuation, especially if power outages or other emergencies disrupt your access to supplies.

Here’s a breakdown of what to pack in your Go-Bag:

• Medications: Always include any prescription medications you or your family members need, along with a list of medical conditions and doses. It’s a good idea to have at least a three-day supply in case you can’t access pharmacies immediately.
• Important Documents: Keep copies of essential documents in a waterproof bag or folder. This should include:
  • Identification (driver’s licenses, passports)
  • Health insurance cards
  • Birth certificates
  • Bank account information
  • Emergency contacts and medical records
• Clothing and Personal Hygiene Products: Pack enough clothing for at least three days, including extra socks and underwear. Include weather-appropriate clothing such as a jacket, hat, and gloves in colder months. Don’t forget personal hygiene items like:
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Tissues or toilet paper
• Emergency Supplies: These are crucial for your survival and comfort during the evacuation. Essentials include:
  • Flashlight and extra batteries: To navigate in the dark if the power is out.
  • Water: Pack at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Consider portable water purification options as well.
  • Non-perishable food: Include energy bars, canned goods, dried fruits, and other foods that don’t require cooking. Also, add a manual can opener if necessary.
  • First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any necessary medical supplies.
  • Multi-tool: A handy tool for minor repairs or emergencies.
  • Portable phone charger: A power bank or solar charger can help keep communication open when the power is out.
• Cash: In case credit cards or ATMs are down, have small denominations of cash on hand for emergencies.
• Special Needs Items: If you have babies, elderly family members, or pets, pack necessary items like formula, diapers, pet food, or mobility aids.

Practice Your Plan Regularly

Having a plan is important, but practice is key. Regularly run through your plan with your family so everyone knows their role and the best routes to take. This reduces panic and confusion if an emergency occurs, ensuring you’re all prepared to evacuate quickly and safely. A detailed, practiced plan can make all the difference in an emergency.

Power Outage Tip #9: Stay Informed

During a power outage, staying informed is critical to ensuring your safety and making the right decisions for your family. While it’s tempting to rely on your phone for updates, you may lose access to WiFi or experience a dead battery during an extended outage. This is where having alternative sources of information becomes essential.

Battery-powered or hand-crank radios are invaluable tools in power outages. These radios can receive emergency updates from local authorities, weather alerts, and crucial information about the status of the power outage. They don’t rely on electricity, making them one of the most reliable ways to stay informed when the grid goes down. Keep one with extra batteries in your emergency kit and ensure it’s easy to access when needed.

In addition to a radio, you should also bookmark official alert sites on your phone or device. These sites

Power Outage Tip #10: Protect Your Appliances

When the power returns after an outage, voltage spikes or surges can cause significant damage to sensitive electronics and appliances. These power fluctuations, which often occur as electricity is restored, can be a hidden danger that many people overlook while focusing on the immediate effects of the outage. To protect your valuable equipment, it’s crucial to take preventive steps before and after the power goes out.

Use Surge Protectors

Plug devices like computers, TVs, and home entertainment systems into surge protectors. These devices absorb excess voltage during a power surge, protecting your appliances from damage. Choose surge protectors with a high joule rating for better protection.

Unplug Sensitive Devices

Unplug electronics and appliances, such as computers and refrigerators, during an outage. This simple step prevents them from being exposed to voltage spikes when power returns.

Invest in an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

For critical devices like medical equipment, security systems, or work-from-home setups, invest in a UPS. A UPS provides temporary power during an outage, ensuring devices stay operational long enough to prevent data loss or failure.

Additional Tips:

• Install whole-house surge protectors for comprehensive protection.
• Avoid turning on appliances immediately after power restoration to allow the electrical system to stabilize.
• Regularly test and replace surge protectors and UPS units as needed.

By taking these precautions, you can protect your appliances from damage and ensure they remain safe and functional during a power outage.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Safe in a Power Outage

Power outages are becoming more frequent and longer-lasting. In 2022 alone, U.S. customers experienced an average outage time of over 7 hours, with severe weather contributing to more than 70% of all disruptions. Power outage preparation is no longer optional—it’s essential for safety and survival.

Take these emergency tips seriously and make a plan today. Stay ahead of the next blackout by prepping your home and sharing this guide with family and friends. Emergency preparedness starts now!