Simple Things Families Forget to Do Before a Power Outage
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Why it matters: A few quick steps can make a power outage feel calmer, safer, and a lot more manageable—especially during winter storms.
1) Charge everything while you still can
Phones, power banks, rechargeable lanterns, headlamps—plug in what you use most first.
2) Find the manual can opener (and put it on the counter)
It sounds obvious… until you need it in the dark.
3) Do one quick “light check”
Put flashlights (or lanterns) in the rooms you’ll actually use: kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedrooms.
4) Freeze a few water bottles or jugs
They help keep the freezer cold longer and can move into a cooler if needed.
5) Set out matches and a lighter
If you use candles, a grill, or a camp stove, you’ll want ignition ready and easy to find.
6) Cook (or eat) the most perishable food first
If a storm is coming, plan supper around what would spoil first—milk, leftovers, thawing meat, etc.
7) Fill the bathtub (or extra containers) with water
Even if you don’t lose water, it’s a simple backup for flushing toilets and basic cleanup.
8) Put a small “outage basket” in one spot
Flashlights, batteries, candles, lighter, first aid, a deck of cards—one grab-and-go location beats hunting in the dark.
9) Pick one warm room and prep it
Extra blankets, slippers, hoodies, board games, books—plan where everyone will gather.
10) Bring in outdoor essentials
If it’s icy, bring in firewood, pet supplies, and anything you’ll need without trudging outside later.
11) Set up a “no-cook” meal plan
Decide now: sandwiches, canned soup, crackers + protein, fruit—simple is the goal.
Here are foods to make during a power outage.
12) Wash dishes and run a quick load of laundry
It’s not glamorous, but it makes the next day easier if power (or water) becomes limited.
13) Put shoes, coats, and keys by the door
If you need to leave quickly—or just check on a neighbor—you’ll be glad you did.
14) Check fuel levels
If you use a generator, propane, or a vehicle for heat/charging, make sure you’re not starting empty.
15) Keep the plan simple (and calm)
Outages are disruptive. A short plan—food, warmth, light—keeps everyone grounded.
Related reading: Power outage preparation tips and winter outage planning from Little House Living: Prepare for a power outage and Preparing for winter power outages.