How to Stay Safe When the Lights Go Out

How to Stay Safe When the Lights Go Out

Cynthia Kolf

Halloween may bring frights and chills, but there’s nothing scarier than being plunged into darkness during a real blackout.

Power outages can strike anytime, caused by natural disasters, high winds, winter storms, grid failures, or unexpected accidents.

Did you know?

  • On average, 70% of U.S. power outages are weather-related, primarily due to storms, hurricanes, floods, or extreme temperatures.
  • The average American experiences about 1.33 power outages per year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
  • In 2021, the typical outage lasted around 7 hours and 20 minutes, though this can vary greatly based on location and cause.
sign with red letter that says "power outages"

With odds like these, it’s a good bet you and your family may face a power outage in the coming year. The key to handling these spooky situations? Preparation.

In this post, we’ll cover everything from emergency lighting to food safety and family calm to help you survive—and even thrive—during a blackout. Let’s get your power outage survival kit together!

Creating Your Blackout Kit: Light Up the Night

When the power cuts out, light is the first thing you’ll need. A well-prepared blackout kit should include multiple light sources:

  • Flashlights: Have a flashlight for each family member, plus extra batteries. Headlamps are a great hands-free option.
  • Lanterns: Battery-powered or solar lanterns provide soft lighting for larger spaces or outdoor use.
  • Glow sticks: Not just for Halloween—they’re safe, non-flammable light sources for kids or marking paths.
  • Candles: While candles can help in a pinch, use them cautiously due to fire risk. Place them safely out of reach of children and pets and consider candles as a last resort.

Make sure all these items are easy to find, and check batteries and supplies every few months to ensure they’re ready.

picture of children with a lantern

Tip: If a storm is forecasted, charge all electronics and power packs, and do as much laundry as possible.

Communication When the Power Fails

Staying informed is essential during a blackout, especially for widespread outages. Since internet and chargers may go down, have a communication plan ready:

  • Battery-operated or hand-crank radio: A must-have for staying updated.
  • Backup power for phones: Solar chargers or portable battery packs help keep phones useful, provided cell towers remain operational.
  • Walkie-talkies: Two-way radios can be helpful for local communication with family or neighbors.

Pro Tip: Keep emergency contact numbers written down, as you may not have access if your phone dies.

picture of a cell phone being charged by solar power bank

Consider downloading key information or paying bills online ahead of a predicted outage.

Keeping Food from Spoiling

One of the biggest blackout challenges is food safety. To avoid a food disaster:

  • Freezer tips: Keep doors shut. A full freezer stays cold up to 48 hours, while a half-full one keeps food safe for about 24 hours.
  • Ice chests: Prepare coolers and ice packs. Fill your freezer with extra ice or frozen water bottles if an outage is likely.
    using an alternative cooker outside during a power outage (or camping)
  • Shelf-stable foods: Stock up on non-perishables like canned goods and dry foods for at least a week. Freeze-dried meals also work well.
  • Alternative cooking: If you have an electric range, keep a backup cooking option like a propane camping stove, along with a manual can opener.

Heating and Cooling Solutions During Blackouts

Blackouts can also mean losing heating or cooling, which can become uncomfortable—or even dangerous.

  • Stay cool: Dress in light fabrics and stay hydrated in hot weather. Use battery-operated fans and open windows for ventilation.
  • Stay warm: Stock extra blankets, sleeping bags, and layered clothing for cold months. Close off unused rooms to retain heat in main areas, but never use outdoor heaters, grills, or gas stoves indoors due to carbon monoxide risks. Having a few carbon monoxide detectors adds extra protection.
a man keeping warm inside during a power outage.  He has a beanie on his head and is wrapped in a blanket, looking at his cell phone.

If you’re in an area prone to long outages, consider investing in a generator to power essentials.

Entertainment Without Power

When the lights go out, boredom can set in, especially for kids. Keeping spirits high helps maintain calm and unity. Try these ideas:

  • Board games and card games: A family-friendly way to pass the time and enjoy each other’s company.
  • Reading materials: Have books, magazines, or newspapers on hand, along with a battery-powered reading light.
  • Crafts and projects: For children, keep a “blackout fun box” with coloring books, puzzles, or simple crafts to distract from the dark.

If it’s close to Halloween, use the darkness to tell spooky stories—just keep them light-hearted for younger kids!

a mom making the power out phone...reading to her children with a flashlight under a sheet

Safety First: Staying Secure in the Dark

During a power outage, take steps to keep your family safe from both accidents and potential security risks:

  • Fire safety: Be extra cautious with candles and lanterns, keeping them away from flammables.
  • Home security: Power outages can make homes more vulnerable. Keep doors locked and consider a battery-powered security system.
  • Medical needs: If anyone in your household relies on medical devices that need electricity, plan for backup power and discuss options with healthcare providers.
children around a table in the dark with a candle

Final Thoughts

Preparedness is your best defense against the unexpected.

By assembling a well-thought-out blackout kit and planning for basic needs, you can turn what could be a challenging situation into an opportunity for resilience and family bonding.

So, next time the lights flicker, you’ll be ready—not rattled!

Be prepared!

Cindi                                                                                          October 29, 2024

the letters spelling blackout on a black background.  The letters show a city view with no lights on in the buildings.

If you would like additional information, please check my earlier blog posts:

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