Extended power outages

1. What this emergency can disrupt

An outage can interrupt heating, cooling, refrigeration, water pumps, payment systems, and medical equipment.

2. Before it happens

• List essential electrical loads and plan a safe alternate location.
• Charge batteries; locate lights and check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

3. During the emergency

• Use battery lighting and keep refrigerator doors closed. Monitor food safety using official temperature and time guidance.
• Fuel-burning generators belong outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents; never in a garage.

4. Evacuation & shelter

Move to a powered location when temperature or medical needs make staying unsafe. Do not wait until essential battery power is exhausted.

5. Communication & family coordination

Choose an out-of-area contact and two meeting locations. Keep numbers on paper. Agree who assists children, pets, and people who need help; send a short status and destination when safe.

6. Supplies & their limits

• Battery capacity in watt-hours differs from output in watts.
• Small power banks cannot run heaters or most large appliances.

7. Common mistakes

• Backfeeding a home through a wall outlet.
• Using a stove or barbecue for indoor heat.

8. Recovery

Avoid downed wires and submerged electrical equipment. Check food and refrigerated medication safety before reuse.

9. Printable checklist