Be Prepared for Power Outages

Our winter storms are powerful and pack a windy punch. Please don’t wait until you’re in the dark to prepare. Check your emergency kit now to ensure you have plenty of batteries and other essential supplies on hand. Visit ready.gov for more resources.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
  • Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
  • Manual can opener, paper cups, plates, paper towels, and plastic utensils
  • Infant formula, diapers, and wipes
  • Pet food and water
  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • First aid kit and extra medication
  • Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
  • Complete change of clothing and sturdy shoes
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  • Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children
  • Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit, remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:

  • Keep canned food in a cool, dry place
  • Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers
  • Replace expired items as needed
  • Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change

Kit Storage Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work, and cars.

  • Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
  • Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water, and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
  • Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

Information from ready.gov/kit.