Power outage checklist
Use this checklist as a household conversation starter. Local emergency instructions always take priority when conditions are dangerous.
Plan the essentials.
Power what matters.
Verify before buying.
Before an outage
Charge phones and power banks; locate flashlights; check battery-powered smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms; know where your emergency supplies are; keep refrigerator/freezer thermometers; create a paper communication plan; identify essential electricity-dependent needs.
When the power fails
Confirm whether the outage is limited to your home; use flashlights instead of candles where possible; keep refrigerator/freezer doors closed; conserve phone battery; monitor official local information; avoid downed power lines.
If the outage continues
Reassess temperature, food, water, medication and powered medical-device needs. Move to a safer location if heat, cold or medical needs make staying home unsafe.
Generator reminder
Never operate a portable generator indoors. CDC guidance says to keep generators outdoors at least 20 feet from windows, doors and vents.
Primary safety sources
Where our safety guidance comes from
Safety-sensitive claims on Outage Ready are grounded in public-health and emergency-preparedness guidance. Always follow current instructions from local authorities during an active emergency.