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Power Outage Survival

Power Outage Survival - track your progress with this interactive checklist.

What this tool does

Power Outage Survival - track your progress with this interactive checklist.

How to use

  1. Work down the list and tick each item as you finish it.
  2. Ticks are saved on this device, in your browser, so they are still there when you come back.

What this checklist covers

The list has 5 groups and 20 items.

  • First steps (5 items): Check whether neighbors have power or only your home does (look at your breaker panel); Report the outage to your utility if it is not already known; Unplug sensitive electronics and turn off power bars; Turn off or unplug major loads (stove, HVAC, dryer) to avoid surge issues; Leave one lamp on so you know when power returns
  • Food and light (4 items): Keep fridge and freezer closed; Use a fridge thermometer if you have one; Open the freezer as little as possible; Use flashlights or headlamps for light instead of candles
  • Safety (4 items): Check that smoke and CO detectors still work (batteries); If you use a generator, run it outdoors only, well away from doors, windows and vents, and follow its manual; Check that a carbon monoxide detector is working inside the home if a generator is running; Do not plug a generator into a wall outlet. Ask a licensed electrician how to connect one to your home
  • Comfort and care (5 items): Store water in containers if you expect a long outage and rely on a well; In cold weather: close unused rooms, block drafts, layer clothing; In hot weather: keep blinds closed, drink water, minimize activity; Check on elderly neighbors or anyone with powered medical devices; Ask your pharmacist how to keep refrigerated medicines cold during an outage
  • When power returns (2 items): Wait a while before plugging in sensitive devices; Turn on major appliances one at a time to avoid a load spike

Tip: Tick each item as you go. Ticks are saved on this device.

Limitations

  • This checklist is a list of general reminders. It does not replace a generator maker's manual, a licensed electrician or instructions from your utility or local authorities.
  • It gives no time limits or temperatures. It does not tell you when food or medicine is unsafe.
  • In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
  • Ticks are saved only in this browser on this device.

FAQs

Q: How long can food stay safe in the fridge?
A: This checklist does not say. Food safety limits come from your local food safety authority, so check their guidance.
Q: Is this a complete emergency plan?
A: No. It is a general list of things to check during and after an outage. It does not know your home, your area or your medical needs.
Q: Can I use it for a long outage?
A: It covers some long-outage items, such as water and heat or cooling, but it is not a full preparedness plan.
Q: Are my ticks saved?
A: Yes, in your browser on this device. If the power or your connection is out, a page you already opened may still work, but do not count on it.

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