Lighting & radios
When the Lights Go Out, Know Where to Start
Keep lights, charging supplies, a radio and written contacts together. Test your outage equipment while you can still see what you are doing.
Choose one familiar place for backup lights, a radio, charging supplies and written contacts. Show everyone where it is and test the equipment before an outage. Nobody should have to search a dark hallway for a flashlight they have never used.
Make a small outage station
- Keep a flashlight or lantern in an accessible place.
- Store compatible spare batteries and charging cables nearby.
- Have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio available for updates.
- Keep important phone numbers on paper as well as in your phone.
Match power to your devices
List the devices you need to run before choosing a battery power station. Check their running and starting requirements against the station’s output and capacity, then read its charging instructions. Runtime will depend on the connected equipment and how you use it.
Use equipment safely
Use fuel-burning generators only outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents. Never use them indoors or in a garage, even with doors or windows open. These carbon-monoxide precautions apply to fuel-burning generators. Battery power stations are a different type of equipment; follow the manufacturer’s instructions for whichever system you use, along with local emergency guidance.
Shop backup power or explore blackout essentials.
Source: Ready.gov power outage guidance.
Turn knowledge into readiness
Prepare for the people counting on you
A plan is easier to build before daily life is interrupted. Check what you have, close one gap and make sure your household knows what to do.
Build your starter plan
