What to Do During a Power Outage at Home

When the power goes out, the first steps should reduce confusion and avoid avoidable risks. Move slowly, check the basics and preserve phone battery.

Check safety first

If you smell gas, see smoke, hear alarms or face immediate danger, leave the area if safe and contact emergency services.

If the outage appears limited to your home, check the circuit breaker only if you can do so safely.

Preserve light and battery

Use flashlights or headlamps. Keep phones in low-power mode and avoid streaming video. A small power bank can keep one phone available for updates.

Manage food and appliances

Keep fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Switch off heat-producing appliances that may restart unexpectedly when power returns.

Follow local updates

Use official utility updates, municipal channels or public broadcasters. Avoid spreading unverified messages.