Emergency Preparedness Checklist: What to Do Before, During, and After a Power Outage

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, electricity customers experienced an average of about 5.5 hours of power interruptions in 2022. Outages can occur without warning from severe weather, equipment failures, or high demand. This checklist helps you stay safe and prepared before, during, and after an outage.

Before a power outage

Build a survival kit

Pack flashlights with extra batteries and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, non-perishable food, bottled water, a manual can opener, first aid supplies and medications, copies of important documents in a waterproof container, and a backup power bank for mobile devices.

Install an emergency backup generator

Whole-home systems provide automatic power when the grid fails, while portable models run key devices like refrigerators and medical equipment. Keep the generator maintained so it is ready.

Protect home energy systems

Use surge protectors throughout the home and unplug devices before an outage to prevent damage when power returns. If you have solar or battery storage, confirm your system is ready to provide backup.

During a power outage

Use safe lighting and power sources

Use flashlights and battery-powered lanterns; candles pose a fire risk. If you use candles, keep them on sturdy surfaces away from flammables. Run portable generators outdoors at least 20 feet from windows and doors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, and never idle a car in a garage to charge a phone.

Keep food and water safe

Keep fridge and freezer doors closed. After four hours in the fridge or 48 in the freezer, use a food thermometer; anything above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours should be thrown out. Keep at least one gallon of water per person per day, boiling or purifying tap water if needed.

Manage temperature and stay informed

In cold weather, dress in layers and keep doors and windows closed. In hot weather, stay hydrated and out of direct sun, and relocate to a cooled location if available.

After a power outage

Watch for surges

Check for unusual smells, sparks, or burn marks around outlets, and plug devices back in one at a time to avoid overloading circuits. Reset any home energy management system settings.

Assess food safety

Check fridge and freezer thermometers; discard perishables that sat above 40 degrees for more than two hours, even if they look fine.

Restock emergency supplies

Replace used flashlights, batteries, water, and non-perishable food, check expiration dates, and inspect and refuel your generator if you used one.

Being ready makes all the difference. A&A GenPro sells, installs, and maintains generators for Houston homes and businesses. Call (713) 715-6618 or request a free quote today.