Power Outage Action Plan
A step-by-step action plan to guide your household through the first minutes, hours, and days of a power outage. Print and post it where everyone can find it.
Power Outage Action Plan
Follow in order. Check each box as completed.
First 15 Minutes
| Done | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stay calm, check if neighbors are also affected | ||
| Check breaker box for tripped breakers | ||
| Report outage to utility company | ||
| Locate flashlights and headlamps | ||
| Unplug sensitive electronics (surge protection) | ||
| Turn off major appliances to reduce load on restoration | ||
| Check battery-powered weather radio for updates |
First Hour
| Done | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Start generator (outside only, 20 ft from home) | ||
| Connect critical loads via extension cords or transfer switch | ||
| Check refrigerator/freezer temps, keep doors closed | ||
| Charge phones and power banks | ||
| Fill bathtubs with water if outage may be extended | ||
| Alert household members of outage status | ||
| Check on elderly or medically dependent neighbors |
Extended Outage (Beyond 4 Hours)
| Done | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory and prioritize food (fridge → cooler → pantry) | ||
| Monitor fuel supply for generator, refuel as needed | ||
| Set up alternative heating or cooling as needed | ||
| Check on utility restoration estimate | ||
| Review water supply, fill containers if pressure is dropping | ||
| Consider relocating household if temps are dangerous | ||
| Document losses for insurance if storm-related |
Food Safety Reference
| Item | Safe Duration (Door Closed) | Action if Exceeded |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 4 hours | Discard perishables above 40°F |
| Freezer (full) | 48 hours | Refreeze if still has ice crystals |
| Freezer (half full) | 24 hours | Cook or discard thawed items |
Key Phone Numbers
| Contact | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Electric utility outage line | |
| Gas utility | |
| Local emergency management | |
| Nearest shelter | |
| Out-of-area contact |
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately when a power outage occurs?
First, check whether the outage is limited to your home (check the breaker box) or affects your neighborhood. Report the outage to your utility company. Switch to battery or alternative lighting. Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer unnecessarily to preserve food. If using a generator, run it outdoors only. Check on elderly or medically dependent neighbors.
How long can food stay safe in a refrigerator and freezer during a power outage?
A full refrigerator stays safe for approximately 4 hours if the door remains closed. A full freezer stays safe for 48 hours (24 hours if half full). Use a cooler with ice for critical refrigerator items after 4 hours. When in doubt, follow the food safety rule: if it smells off or has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours, discard it.
How do I prepare for a power outage in advance?
Before an outage occurs: charge devices and power banks, fill the bathtub with water for sanitation, lower the refrigerator temperature to 37°F and the freezer to 0°F to extend the safe window, locate flashlights and candles, know where your circuit breaker is, and have a plan for any household members who depend on electric medical equipment.
Is it safe to run a generator indoors during a power outage?
Never run a generator indoors or in an attached garage, even with windows open. Generators produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal within minutes. Run generators at least 20 feet from any door, window, or vent, with the exhaust directed away from the structure. Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home.