Last updated November 1, 2026 by the BasicSurvivalKit.com team
To prepare for a power outage, keep flashlights or lanterns, a hand crank weather radio and power banks for every phone. For longer outages, add a portable power station (safe indoors) or a fuel generator (outdoors only, at least 20 feet from the home) and a battery carbon monoxide alarm.
Power outages are the most common emergency most families face. Storms, heat waves, wildfires and grid problems can all knock out power for hours or days. Here is how to stay ready.
1. Light and information first
Before buying big power gear, cover the basics: lanterns, headlamps, a hand crank weather radio and a power bank for every phone.
2. Power station or generator?
A portable power station is a big rechargeable battery. It is quiet, has no fumes, and is safe to use indoors. A smaller unit like the EcoFlow RIVER runs phones, lights, a laptop and many CPAP machines. Larger units like the EcoFlow DELTA Pro or Anker SOLIX can run a fridge and more.
A fuel generator burns gas or propane. It makes far more power for far longer, and can run a fridge, freezer, well pump and more. A dual fuel inverter generator is quieter and safe for electronics. For whole home backup, the DuroMax XP13000EH is a popular choice.
Many families use both: a power station indoors at night and a generator outdoors by day.
3. Add solar
Pair a power station with foldable solar panels or buy a solar generator bundle so you can recharge every day without fuel.
4. Generator safety
Generators make carbon monoxide, which you cannot see or smell. The CDC advises keeping generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from your home, away from windows and doors. Never run one in a garage, even with the door open. Install battery carbon monoxide alarms, and use heavy duty cords. Never plug a generator into a wall outlet; use a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician.
5. Keep food safe
A full freezer stays cold for about 48 hours and a fridge for about 4 hours if you keep the doors closed. A cooler with ice or a 12V fridge buys more time.
6. Protect your basement
If you have a sump pump, a battery backup system prevents flooding when storms and outages hit together.
Browse all backup power gear.
Common questions
What can a portable power station run?
Small units run phones, lights, laptops, routers and many CPAP machines. Large units can run a refrigerator, a freezer, power tools and some home circuits for hours.
Can I run a generator in my garage?
No. Never run a generator in a garage, basement or any enclosed space, even with doors open. Keep it outdoors and at least 20 feet from your home.
How long does food last without power?
A closed fridge keeps food safe for about 4 hours and a full closed freezer for about 48 hours, according to USDA guidance.
This guide shares general preparedness information based on public guidance from Ready.gov, the American Red Cross and the CDC. It is not professional advice. Always follow local officials during an emergency.