Power outages are the most common emergency most families will ever face. Whether caused by a severe storm, grid failure, or an extended weather event, losing power can quickly become dangerous — especially for households with young children, elderly members, or medical needs.
The good news: with the right preparation, a power outage becomes an inconvenience instead of a crisis. Here's how to stay safe, warm, and comfortable when the lights go out.
The First 30 Minutes: What to Do Immediately
- Check if the outage is isolated to your home (check your breaker box) or widespread (check your neighbors or utility company's app)
- Unplug sensitive electronics — power surges when electricity returns can damage appliances and devices
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed — a full freezer stays safe for 48 hours, a fridge for 4 hours
- Locate your flashlights, candles, and emergency kit before it gets dark
- Charge your phone immediately if you have any battery remaining
Lighting Solutions That Actually Work
Candles are a fire hazard. Flashlights eat batteries. The smartest power outage lighting solution is solar — specifically a collapsible solar lantern that charges during the day and provides hours of safe, bright light at night.
Our Collapsible Solar Lantern is designed exactly for this scenario. It folds flat for storage, expands to a full lantern when needed, and charges via solar panel or USB. No batteries required. No open flame. Just reliable light when you need it most.
Staying Warm (or Cool)
In cold weather: Close off unused rooms and gather your family into one central space to share body heat. Layer clothing and use sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures. A propane heater designed for indoor use can supplement warmth — but always ensure ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
In hot weather: This is more dangerous. Heat stroke can develop quickly, especially in children and the elderly. Move to the lowest level of your home (cooler air sinks), use battery-powered fans, stay hydrated, and know the nearest cooling center location in your area.
Food Safety During a Power Outage
- Refrigerated food is safe for up to 4 hours with the door closed
- A full freezer maintains a safe temperature for 48 hours; half-full for 24 hours
- Use a food thermometer — discard anything above 40°F that's been sitting for more than 2 hours
- Cook perishables first before they spoil; non-perishables and shelf-stable items last
- Never use a gas stove or outdoor grill indoors for heating — carbon monoxide risk
Power Backup Options
For extended outages, a backup power source changes everything:
- Portable power stations: Charge via solar or wall outlet, power small devices and lights for hours to days
- Solar generators: Combine a power station with solar panels for fully off-grid capability
- Gas generators: Higher power output but require fuel storage and must be used outdoors only
Browse our full Emergency Power Generators collection to find the right backup power solution for your household, or explore our broader range of power and safety solutions.
Medical Equipment and Special Needs
If anyone in your household depends on electrically powered medical equipment — CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, refrigerated medications — register with your utility company as a medical baseline customer. Many utilities prioritize restoration for these households and will notify you in advance of planned outages.
Keep a 72-hour supply of all medications accessible. Know the nearest hospital or clinic that has backup power.
Build Your Power Outage Kit Now
Every household should have ready:
- Our Collapsible Solar Lantern for safe, reliable lighting
- A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio
- A portable phone charger (power bank) fully charged at all times
- A three-day supply of food and water
- Our Ultimate Survival Med Kit for any injuries or medical needs
Don't wait for the next storm warning to scramble for supplies. Build your kit this week, and the next power outage will be just another evening at home.
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