Winter Storm Prep: Supplies for a Multi-Day Power Outage

A winter storm can knock out power for days, and cold makes every problem worse. Preparing before the storm means you can stay warm, fed and informed without scrambling. Here is a practical plan for a multi-day outage.

Safety first: heat and carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk during winter outages. Never run a generator, grill, camp stove or charcoal burner indoors, in a garage or near windows and vents. Install battery-powered or battery backup carbon monoxide alarms and test them. Only use heaters that are rated for indoor use and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Stay warm without power

• Pick one room. Close doors and cover windows with blankets to hold heat in a single space.
• Layer up. Wear base layers, wool or fleece, hats and warm socks. Bring sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures to the room you choose.
• Insulate the floor. Foam pads or rugs under bedding reduce heat loss.
• Eat and drink regularly. Your body produces heat by processing food, and dehydration makes cold harder to handle.

Light

Headlamps and battery lanterns are safer than candles, which are a fire risk. Keep spare batteries, and store flashlights where everyone knows to find them.

Water and food

Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for several days. If pipes may freeze, fill bathtubs or large containers ahead of time for flushing. Stock shelf-stable foods that need no cooking, and keep a manual can opener. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed to hold in cold; a full freezer stays frozen longer than a half-empty one.

Communication and information

A battery or hand-crank weather radio gives you alerts when cell service fails. Charge phones and power banks before the storm, and lower screen brightness and close unused apps to save power. Keep a printed list of emergency contacts.

Medical and special needs

Refill prescriptions in advance. Plan for anyone who relies on electric medical equipment, and contact your utility ahead of time if you do. Check on older neighbors and relatives.

Vehicle readiness

Keep your gas tank at least half full during winter, and stock a vehicle kit with blankets, a shovel, traction aids and a flashlight.

Checklist

• Carbon monoxide alarm with fresh batteries
• Headlamps, lanterns and spare batteries
• Water for several days
• No-cook food and a can opener
• Sleeping bags, blankets and warm clothing
• Weather radio and charged power banks
• Prescriptions and first aid kit

Next step

Shop winter storm essentials and download our printable checklist.