Be Prepared:

Prepare:

• Fill plastic containers with water and place them in the refrigerator and freezer. Cold water bottles will help keep food cold during a power outage and can also be used for drinking water.
• Check with your physician or pharmacist about any medication that needs to be refrigerated. It is important to know how long medication is safe in the refrigerator without power.
• Make a plan to prepare for family members with disabilities or who have ill health.
• Try to keep gas tanks at least half full. If the power goes out, gas stations may be unavailable.
• Have extra cash available. ATMs will not work without electricity.
• Keep a key to the house with you when away from home. The garage will not open if the power is out.

Blackout-Specific Items to Add to Preparedness Kit:

• Extra batteries
• Large flashlights or emergency lighting
• Food that does not require heat
• Warm clothes and blankets

Be Safe:

Signs:

• Severe weather, such as thunderstorms, tornados, winter storms and strong winds.
• Extreme hot or cold temperatures.

During:

• Use only flashlights or emergency lighting. Never use candles during a blackout or power outage due to fire risk.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep the contents inside as fresh as possible. If you must eat food, check it carefully for signs of spoilage.
• Turn off or disconnect appliances and electronics. The return of power may cause surges that can damage them.
• If it is hot outside, move to the lowest level of your home, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and drink water.
• If it is cold outside, dress in warm clothing and layers, keep doors shut and never use the stove or charcoal as a heat source.
• Use extreme caution when driving.
• Do not call 9-1-1 to ask about the power outage. Listen to a battery powered radio for updates.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by not using grills, unvented gas or kerosene heaters, generators, or ovens and stoves in the house.

After:

• Throw away food that has been exposed to temperatures more than 40 degrees for two hours or more, or if they have unusual color, odor or texture. Remember: When in doubt, throw it out!
• Report downed power lines. Stay away. Stay safe!

More Information/Additional Resources:

FEMA Power Outage Website: http://www.ready.gov/power-outages
FEMA Accessible: CDC Carbon Monoxide Poisoning (ASL Video)
FEMA Accessible: Lifesaving Safety Tips PSA (ASL Video)
FEMA CDC Accessible: Returning Home Safely After a Disaster (ASL Video)
What to Do Before, During, and After a Power Outage (PDF)