Power outage and blackout kit
A large blackout takes out more than lights: card payments, mobile networks, water pressure in tall buildings and, after a while, fuel stations. This is the scenario most government lists are written for, and the core of our L1 kit.
Before it happens
- Keep cash in small notes.
- Charge power banks and keep them topped up.
- Keep the fridge and freezer closed to hold the cold.
- Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them when power returns.
When it happens
- Keep the fridge and freezer closed. A fridge keeps food cold for about 4 hours; a full freezer for about 48 hours (24 hours if half full).
- Use torches and lanterns, not candles, to avoid fires.
- Run generators outdoors only, at least 6 m (20 ft) from windows and doors, and never connect one to your home wiring without an electrician.
- If you rely on powered medical equipment, have a plan for backup power or where to go.
Afterwards
- Throw away chilled food that has been above 4 °C (40 °F) for more than 2 hours. When in doubt, throw it out.
- Check on neighbours, especially older people and anyone who relies on medical equipment.
The kit
Start with the L1 kit (72 hours). For this hazard, these items matter most:
- Carbon monoxide alarm
- Water container with lid and tap
- Portable gas stove
- Power bank
- Battery LED lantern
- Emergency radio
- Portable water filter
- Bathtub water bladder
- Handheld VHF/UHF radio
- Radio operating & licence study book
- Portable jump starter with USB output
- Car USB charger / 12 V inverter
- Vacuum flask
- Water storage for two weeks
- Gravity water filter (household)
- Freeze-dried meals
- Portable power station
- Portable solar panel
- Rechargeable AA/AAA batteries + USB-C charger
- Inverter generator (houses with outdoor space)
- Hurricane (kerosene) lantern
- Alternative heater (no mains power needed)
- Satellite messenger
- Portable satellite internet
- Fuel can
- Bottled drinking water
- Heavy-duty bin bags and ties
- Anti-diarrhoea tablets
- Unscented household bleach (water treatment)
Sources: Ready.gov (FEMA). Last reviewed: October 2026.