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The power just went out

FirstKeep the fridge and freezer closed.

Keep the fridge shut, use flashlights, and keep anything that burns fuel outside.

  1. Keep the fridge and freezer doors closed. The fridge keeps food safe up to 4 hours; a full freezer about 48 hours, or 24 if half full (FoodSafety.gov).
  2. Use flashlights, not candles (Red Cross).
  3. Unplug appliances and electronics to protect them from surges (Ready.gov).
  4. Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home. Generators, camp stoves and grills go outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors and garages (Ready.gov).
  5. If it's very hot or very cold, go to a community location with power (Ready.gov).
Don't. Headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach or confusion can mean carbon monoxide, which you can't see or smell (CDC). Get to fresh air and call 911.

When things calm down: Getting through a power outage

Sources

  1. Ready.gov Power outages
  2. FoodSafety.gov Food safety during a power outage
  3. American Red Cross Power outage safety
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Carbon monoxide poisoning basics

Last checked October 2, 2026 against the sources listed. See a mistake?