Power Outage Preparedness
The average American household experiences about 8 hours of power outages per year — but in extreme weather, outages can last days. Here's how to prepare for both.
Before the Power Goes Out
The most important prep happens before the storm hits. Set up these things now, while life is normal:
- Charge all devices before a storm warning
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio
- Know where your breaker box is and how to use it
- Have at least one flashlight per room + extra batteries
- Fill your bathtub with water (WaterBOB is better — see sidebar)
During a Power Outage
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A full freezer stays frozen for 48 hours; half-full for 24. The fridge stays safe for about 4 hours.
Never run a generator, grill, camp stove, or any gas-powered equipment indoors or in a garage — even with the door open. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the #1 cause of weather-related death during outages.
Every year, people die running generators in attached garages. Install a battery-powered CO detector near every sleeping area. Replace batteries annually.
Jackery Explorer 300
Powers phones, tablets, CPAP machines, and small fans. Quiet, clean, and safe to use indoors unlike generators. A must-have for anyone with medical equipment.
Frozen & Burst Pipes
In Texas and other southern states, homes aren't insulated for extreme cold the way northern homes are. That makes frozen pipes a very real risk when temps dip below 20°F.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Let faucets drip slowly during a freeze (both hot and cold)
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls
- Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and attics
- Know where your main water shutoff is — and make sure it actually works
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before first freeze
Go find your main water shutoff valve today. It's usually near the street, in a utility room, or near the water heater. Test that it turns. If it's old and stuck, call a plumber before winter — not during one.
If Your Pipes Freeze
Turn off the main water supply immediately. Open the faucet on the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Apply gentle heat — a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels — starting from the faucet end and working toward the coldest section. Never use an open flame.
If a Pipe Bursts
Shut off the main water immediately. Turn off electricity in the affected area at the breaker box. Call a plumber. Document damage for your insurance claim with photos before cleaning up.
Frost King Pipe Insulation Foam (6-pack)
Easy to install on exposed pipes — just split and wrap. Takes 30 minutes for most homes and costs under $15. Do it before the first freeze warning.
Emergency Water Supply
Water is your most critical resource. You can survive weeks without food but only days without water. The good news: practical water storage is easy and inexpensive.
How Much Do You Need?
FEMA recommends a minimum of 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days. We recommend building toward a 2-week supply — especially in areas prone to winter storms or hurricanes.
WaterBOB Emergency Bathtub Water Storage
Fits in a standard bathtub and holds 100 gallons of clean water. Fill it when a storm is coming — takes 20 minutes. About $30 and worth every penny.
The 72-Hour Home Kit
This is the foundation. A 72-hour kit means your household can function for 3 days without power, running water, or outside help. Build this first, then expand.
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