9 Tips for Surviving a Long Power Outage

You might not realize how much you rely on electricity until you go without it. While a weekend of boondocking might leave you yearning for the trappings of civilization, you can’t always depend on those, either. Knowing how to prepare for a long-term power outage is a must in an uncertain world. The following nine tips and tricks make you into a proper scout with the wherewithal to last until the lights come back on. 

Forewarned Is Forearmed: Why Prepare for a Long-Term Power Outage

Power outages are rare but are increasing in frequency. The Federation of American Scientists states that 300 million Americans could experience power outages between 2024 and 2028. That’s a real threat amid rising average temperatures. While cold can kill, it can be harder to stay cool in extreme heat without air conditioning, often affecting the poorest and most vulnerable individuals. 

What May Cause a Power Outage? 

Multiple factors may cause a power outage, including:

• Storms and severe weather
• Trees or equipment downing power lines
• Squirrels, birds or other wildlife damaging wires 
• An attack on the power grid 
• Rolling blackouts or brownouts due to high demand

Additionally, officials simply don’t know what causes some power outages. What is certain is that the number and frequency of severe storms have increased in recent years, thanks to climate change. It’s more important than ever to have a backup plan. 

How to Report a Power Cut 

Reporting a power cut is as easy as phoning your local utility and informing them that you lost power. You’ll often hear a prerecorded message if others have already contacted them, which may provide information about the outage and how long authorities expect it to last. 

10 Proactive Power Outage Tips and Tricks to Be Ready for Anything

What can you do if the lights suddenly go out? Taking the following steps before an emergency strikes helps you sail through the storm with minimal stress. 

1. Convert to Solar 

If you have the means, there’s simply no reason not to convert to solar. You’re giving yourself the gift of nearly free electricity and doing the planet a huge solid in the bargain. Look for a hybrid system that provides off-grid functionality if the grid goes down. Solar panels require minimal maintenance, and such systems are often less costly to repair than traditional models. Furthermore, you can still cut high upfront costs through tax credits. 

The sweetest part? During a power outage, your home will continue operating as usual, while those on the traditional grid must wait for authorities to restore their electricity. 

2. Invest in a Backup Generator 

A backup generator is your next-best alternative for surviving a long-term power outage. However, you must research your model carefully, studying how long it will last and what devices it will run. Few generators will run your home’s HVAC system for long, and operating the fridge may mean keeping things dark elsewhere. 

3. Keep Your Backups Charged 

Even if you have a big backup generator, smaller chargers keep your phone and possibly a TV or radio going, letting you get updates and inform others of your situation. Keep these backup devices charged so they’re there when you need them. 

4. Maintain a Water Supply 

Where you live often determines your accessibility to water when you have a power outage. Those in homes and on wells will find that pumps don’t work, but they often have a supply in their reservoir. Those in apartments may find their taps dry. It’s always wise to keep a stash of drinking water on hand for emergencies, and you can dip into your toilet tank and water heater. Purifying straws and tablets cost little but can help you quench your thirst in a pinch. 

The bottom line: Conserve your drinking supply, as no power can mean no water, either.

5. Invest in Alternative Lighting Sources

Emergency candles help but pose a fire hazard at a time when circumstances already stretch emergency crews thin. A stash of LED lanterns and battery-operated tea lights can help you navigate in the dark. Most cost little at dollar stores. 

6. Stick to One Room

Maintaining a constant indoor temperature is harder when you can’t run the heat or AC. Stick to one room, using measures like blankets over windows to conserve heat. A small backup generator like a Jackery can also run some space heaters. 

7. Try a Dual-Tent Technique

If it’s seriously cold during a power outage, try erecting a smaller tent inside of a larger one right inside your house. Then, pile inside to let your combined body heat warm the space. 

8. Stockpile Plenty of Blankets

Even if you live in a traditionally warm area like the Southwest, desert nights can dip below freezing. Be sure to keep warm clothes and blankets on hand. 

9. Keep Dry Ice on Hand 

You can create a makeshift AC by putting dry ice in a container and using a fan to direct the cool air. A small power bank can run the fan, dropping temperatures when they reach the danger zone.

10. Eat Perishables First 

Food waste costs money and produces methane in landfills. Eat perishable, refrigerated items before breaking into your prepper’s pantry. 

Power Outage FAQs

1. What Does It Mean to Have a Power Outage? 

A power outage means there is a disruption in the electrical grid. It’s not something you can DIY — it is a widespread community issue. 

2. How Do I Know When the Power Will Be Back on in My Area? 

Your local utility company often provides recorded messages regarding when the power will be back on in your area. However, restoration times may vary depending on the amount and type of damage. 

3. What’s One Thing I Can Do Today to Prepare for a Long-Term Power Outage? 

To prepare for a long-term power outage, stock up on whatever is within your budget, be that small, battery-operated candles and lanterns or contacting a contractor about home solar installation. 

4. What Power Outage Tips and Tricks Can You Offer Parents?

The best power outage tip and trick for parents is to make these events fun by turning them into an adventure. What fun games can you play in the dark? You can also assuage your child’s fears by comforting them and keeping your anxieties at bay. One fun power outage tip and trick is to treat the event like a long car ride — whip out those “special” activity books and color by lantern light. 

Tips for Surviving a Long-Term Power Outage

The right power outage tips and tricks can make it easier to endure when the lights go out. Knowing how to survive a long-term power outage gives you peace of mind and the confidence that you can protect those you love. Invest in the supplies you need, whatever your budget and remember that knowing what to do is your best asset in an emergency.