Extended Power Outages
Extended Power Outage Preparedness
Extended power outages can last days or even weeks, leaving you without heat, refrigeration, or communication. Whether caused by severe weather, grid failure, or infrastructure damage, being prepared is essential.
The average American experiences 8 hours of power outages annually, but severe weather events can cause outages lasting weeks. Food spoilage, heating/cooling loss, and communication breakdown are major concerns.
Understanding Power Outage Threats
Extended power outages affect every aspect of daily life. Without electricity, you lose refrigeration, heating/cooling, lighting, communication, and access to cash and fuel pumps.
Key Preparedness Priorities
- Backup power sources (generators, solar panels, battery banks)
- Alternative heating and cooling methods
- Battery-powered or hand-crank lighting
- Non-perishable food that doesn't require cooking
- Water storage (municipal pumps may fail)
- Battery-powered radio for emergency updates
- Cash on hand (ATMs and card readers won't work)