• Behavioral Issues
• Child Care
• Cleaning Up After a Storm
• Communication
• Deciding To Stay Or Go
• Evacuation Shelters
• First Aid & Medical
• Flood Center
• Food and Water
• Help the Relief Effort
• Insurance Center
• Lighting & Power
• Pet Care
• Preparing Your Home
• Special Needs
• Storms Explained

Home > Lighting & Power > Article

Small TextMedium TextLarge Text

---

When You Anticipate a Power Outage

Hurricanes can cause power to be out for days, weeks, even months. If a hurricane or tropical storm affects your area, chances are that power outages will affect your area too. Take the following precautions to make sure that your home is prepared for power outages caused by tropical storms, hurricanes, and thunderstorms.

If you know a power outage is coming:

• Make sure that all computers and other electronic equipment, such as televisions, VCRs, DVD players and stereo equipment are plugged into surge protectors.
• Back up all critical files on your computer.
• Unplug electrical equipment. Spikes and surges could occur as power is restored, damaging equipment.
• Charge any batteries you need to run portable electronic devices that you use regularly.
• Make sure that your disaster supply kit is complete and that it can be found easily if the lights go out.