Preparing for a Long Power Outage

Assemble emergency lighting kit

Keep lights in easy-to-reach spots: entry, bedrooms, kitchen.

Pack flashlights and spare batteries

Use LED flashlights; store fresh batteries nearby.

Pack candles and waterproof matches/lighter

Keep candles in holders; never leave burning unattended.

Pack headlamps and glow sticks

Charge devices and power banks

Top up all device batteries before the outage.

Fully charge power banks and phones now

Charge to full; keep one bank plugged in if possible.

Gather charging cables, car charger, and solar charger

Label cables and keep them in a single pouch.

Store drinking water for 3 days

Aim for 1 gallon per person per day; include pets.

Prepare fridge & freezer to preserve food

Move perishables to cooler and freeze containers

Use frozen water bottles as ice packs to extend cold time.

Set fridge/freezer to coldest and keep doors closed

Don't open unless necessary; group items together.

Prepare alternative cooking & heating methods

Test portable gas stove outdoors and store fuel safely

Use only outdoors; store fuel in approved containers away from the house.

Review generator manual and fuel storage

Know startup, shutdown, and safe fueling practices.

Position and test generator outdoors with proper ventilation

Keep generator away from windows; use heavy-duty cords and never run indoors.

Keep emergency cash and important documents accessible

Small bills, copies of IDs, and insurance cards in a waterproof pouch.

Pack battery-powered or hand-crank radio and spare batteries

Tune to local emergency frequencies; test it now.

Assemble personal emergency kit (meds, toiletries, pet needs)

Include 3 days of prescription meds and supplies for infants/pets.

Plan neighbor check-in schedule and contacts

Arrange who checks on elderly/disabled and set a meeting point.

Unplug sensitive electronics and set refrigerators to energy-saving mode

Prevent surge damage and conserve stored cold.