1. Stay Safe
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight handy. Avoid using candles unattended.
- Keep your phone charged in advance or use a power bank.
- Stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
- Dress in layers to stay warm, and cover windows and doors to reduce drafts.
2. Preserve Heat
- Close off unused rooms and focus on staying in one warm area.
- Use blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing.
- If you have a safe alternative heat source, like a fireplace or wood stove, use it with caution and proper ventilation.
3. Keep Food Safe
- Avoid opening the refrigerator or freezer frequently; food can stay safe for 24 hours in a full fridge and 48 hours in a full freezer.
- Eat perishable foods first if the outage lasts longer than a few hours.
4. Stay Informed
- Use a battery-powered radio to monitor weather updates and emergency alerts.
- Check local news and official sources for storm updates and instructions.
5. Stay Occupied
- Read books, play board games, do puzzles, or write in a journal.
- Draw, craft, or do indoor exercises to stay active.
- Listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks on battery-powered devices.
6. Take Care of Your Mental Health
- Stay connected with friends and family via text or calls if possible.
- Practice mindfulness, meditation, or simple breathing exercises to reduce stress.
7. Plan for Emergencies
- Keep a small kit with water, snacks, blankets, first aid supplies, and essential medications.
- Make sure you have necessary items for pets or family members who need extra care.
8. Conserve Phone Battery
- Use your phone sparingly, dim the screen, and turn off nonessential apps.
- Share updates with friends and family in batches rather than constant messaging.
9. Stay Calm and Positive
- Treat the outage as an opportunity to slow down, enjoy indoor activities, or bond with household members.
- Avoid risky behaviors like going outside unnecessarily or using unsafe heat sources.