Understand the impact
Outages hit lighting, heating, internet, card payments and refrigeration. Prioritize vision, warmth and communications first.
Lighting & power
- Headlamps (hands-free) + flashlights, rechargeable or with spare batteries.
- Power banks (10–20 Ah), optional compact power station; cables and 12V car charger.
- Maintenance: quarterly full charge/test cycle.
Warmth & clothing
- Layering: thermal base, fleece mid, wind/rain shell.
- Never use open flames indoors without ventilation/CO monitor.
Cooking & food
- Gas/alcohol stove on a stable surface plus fire extinguisher.
- Cooler with ice packs; emphasize pantry foods that need no refrigeration.
Comms & info
- Emergency radio (crank/solar) + printed contact list.
- Family/neighbor rally point.
Safety
- Check CO/smoke alarms.
- Keep torches bedside; keep pathways clear.
These basics cut both discomfort and risk dramatically—even in extended outages.