Preparing for Severe Weather and Extended Power Outages
Combine official alerts, safe shelter decisions, outage supplies, food awareness, and carbon-monoxide prevention.
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Prepare before conditions deteriorate
Identify the severe-weather hazards common to your area and learn the difference between local watches, warnings, evacuation instructions, and shelter guidance. Keep multiple ways to receive official alerts.
Review safe shelter areas, mobility and accessibility needs, medications and powered equipment with appropriate professionals, pet needs, transportation, and a backup location if the home becomes unsafe.
- 1Enable official local and weather alerts.
- 2Charge devices and backup batteries.
- 3Check water, shelf-stable food, safe lighting, radio, and first-aid supplies.
- 4Reduce outdoor hazards only when conditions are still safe.
- 5Follow official instructions as the event develops.
Manage an extended outage safely
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed and use current FoodSafety.gov guidance to evaluate food. Use flashlights instead of candles when possible. Avoid downed lines, standing water near electrical hazards, and wet electrical devices.
Never improvise generator wiring or indoor fuel-burning heat. If indoor temperature becomes unsafe, use an official warming, cooling, or emergency shelter.
Put this guidance to work
Related mission
Create a Safe Backup Power Plan
Keep the mission focused on safe, manufacturer-approved equipment and official guidance.
View Preparedness Missions →Authoritative references
Review current source and local guidance because recommendations can change.
- What to Do to Protect Yourself During a Power OutageCenters for Disease Control and Prevention
- Weather SafetyNational Weather Service
- Three Ways to Keep Food Safe When You Lose PowerFoodSafety.gov