Essential Prepping Tips for Power Outages

Power outages can strike without warning—whether due to severe weather, equipment failure, or unexpected disruptions. Being prepared ensures your safety, comfort, and resilience when the lights go out, whether for a few hours or an extended period. Here are some essential prepping tips to help you stay ready and maintain peace of mind during a power outage.

Power Transmission Line

1. Build an Emergency Kit

Every household should have a well-stocked emergency kit. Essential items include flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, non-perishable food, bottled water, and a first aid kit. Make sure this kit is easily accessible, and ensure all household members know its location.

The Prep Community's Picks for an Emergency Kit:

• Emergency Hand Crank Radio with LED Flashlight for Emergency

• WaterStorageCube BPA Free Collapsible Water Container

• Augason Farms Lunch and Dinner Variety Pail Emergency Food

• First Aid Only 299 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Emergency Kit

2. Alternative Lighting Solutions

When the power goes out, you'll need reliable light sources. Stock up on candles, lanterns, and solar-powered lights as backup options. Always handle open flames carefully, and never leave them unattended to avoid fire hazards.

The Prep Community's Picks for Alternative Lighting:

• Energizer Weatheready LED Emergency Lantern

• MontoPack Unscented Tea Light Candles

3. Invest in Backup Power

Consider getting a generator to keep essential appliances running during prolonged outages. Be sure to follow safety guidelines for operation, keep the generator outside in a well-ventilated area, and store enough fuel to last several days if needed.

The Prep Community's Picks for Backup Power:

• Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator

• EF ECOFLOW RIVER 2 Max Solar Generator

• INIU Portable Charger

• Power-Bank-Solar-Charger - 42800mAh

4. Stock Up on Food and Water

Prepare for power outages by supplying non-perishable food that doesn't require cooking or refrigeration. Keep at least one gallon of water per person daily for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, aiming for a minimum three-day supply.

The Prep Community's Picks for Food and Water:

• Augason Farms Lunch and Dinner Variety Pail Emergency Food

• LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

• Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter System

• WaterStorageCube BPA Free Collapsible Water Container

5. Stay Connected and Informed

Knowledge is power during emergencies. Use a battery-powered radio or a mobile device with a portable charger to stay informed about the outage status and any updates from local authorities. This information will help you gauge the expected duration and safety advisories.

The Prep Community's Picks for staying connected:

• BAOFENG Radio 5RM Ham Radio

• The Guerrilla's Guide To The Baofeng Radio

• Emergency Hand Crank Radio with LED Flashlight for Emergency

6. Regulate Temperature

Extreme temperatures can be dangerous during an outage. Have extra blankets, warm clothing, and hand warmers in colder weather. For hot weather, stock up on cold packs and battery-operated fans and ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating.

The Prep Community's Picks for Staying Warm:

• Large Hand & Body Warmers

• Emergency Foil Mylar Thermal Blankets

• PREPARED4X Emergency Rain Poncho with Mylar Blanket Liner

7. Develop a Communication Plan

Have a clear family communication plan in place. Designate a meeting spot in case of separation, and keep a list of emergency contacts handy. This ensures everyone can stay connected even if regular communication methods are disrupted.

8. Secure Your Home

Lock all doors and windows during a power outage to secure your home. Consider installing battery-powered security devices like motion-sensor lights or surveillance cameras to protect your property and deter potential threats.

The Prep Community's Picks for Home Security:

• Tuffenough Solar Outdoor Lights

• Solar Security Lights

9. Practice Generator Safety

If you're using a generator, never operate it indoors or in enclosed spaces to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Always use it outside, away from windows and doors, and ensure proper ventilation.

10. Build Community Support

Reach out to neighbors, particularly those vulnerable, such as the elderly or disabled. Offering or receiving assistance during a power outage can make a huge difference. A strong community can provide support when it's most needed.

By preparing in advance for power outages, you can minimize disruption and protect your well-being until electricity is restored. Stay safe, stay connected, and remember—it's always better to be over-prepared than caught off guard in an emergency.