What to do to Prepare Before a Power Outage (2024)

FAQs

What to do to Prepare Before a Power Outage? ›

Home Preparation

Depending on the amount of water remaining in the pipes, you might be able to flush your toilet several times while the power is out. Eventually, however, your tank won't fill up anymore because the pumps are down. When this happens, you will need to flush your toilet manually by pouring in a bucket of water.

If you notice signs of a brownout, there are steps you should take to limit your power consumption: Unplug unnecessary electronics, like computers and televisions; turn off (or at least limit how often you use) your air conditioner; switch off lights (use flashlights, not candles, if it's nighttime); and shut off ...

Unplug appliances with electronic components, such as microwaves, televisions and computers. This will help to eliminate damage to your appliances from voltage surges when the electricity is restored. Wait a few minutes before turning on these appliances when the electricity is restored.

However, under virtually every other scenario, including the power grid getting knocked out by hackers, your electronic devices will continue to function properly, provided that you have alternate power sources. Beyond that, your cell phone is going to work for at least four hours after the power grid goes down.

Whatever gas that is in your car the moment the power grid fails is all the gas you will have. Gas pumps need electricity to run. Without gas, you will be stranded as well as city buses, trucks that haul supplies across the country and even government vehicles like cop cars and ambulances.

Stock Water: Fill the bathtub so you have water to flush the toilet. Then fill large containers for drinking water. Charge Everything: Keep cell phones and tablets charged. You can save batteries by turning power settings to low and turning off data.

Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.

Can I Shower When the Power Is Out? To shower when the power is out, your home needs a traditional tank-style water heater. If that water heater still has hot water in reserve, then you can take a warm shower. If you plan to take a shower, you need to do it soon after the power goes out.

Preparing for a Power Outage

Have flashlights ready in different parts of your home. Ensure cell phones and power banks are fully charged. You may have to stay at home during a power outage, think of other items your family may need like nonperishable food, water, blankets or toys close by.

How do you keep food fresh during a power outage? ›

During a Power Outage

Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. The refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours. If the power is off longer, you can transfer food to a cooler and fill with ice or frozen gel packs. Make sure there is enough ice to keep food in the cooler at 40°F or below.

A: Yes. When electric service is restored, thoroughly check your home to ensure there are no electrical hazards prior to turning on the main breaker. Electric hazards could consist of appliances that were left on during the power outage.