• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
• Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you.

For more information on readiness and generator safety visit FEMA's Power Outage page.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

• Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
• Prescription Medication
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler's checks
• Important family documents, such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records, saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

For more information visit FEMA's Emergency Preparedness Kit.

Food stored in refrigerators and freezers can become unsafe without electricity or a cold source. Bacteria in food grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit and if these foods are consumed you can become very sick. Thawed food usually can be eaten if it is still “refrigerator cold” (between 35° and 38°F). It can be re-frozen if it still contains ice crystals. Remember “When in doubt, throw it out!”

Do:

• Keep food in covered containers.
• Keep cooking and eating utensils clean.
• Throw away any food that has come into contact with contaminated flood water.
• Throw away any food that has been at room temperature for two hours or more.
• Throw away any food that has an unusual odor, color or texture.
• Use ready-to-feed formula. If you must mix infant formula use bottled water or boiled water as a last resort.

Don’t:

• Eat foods from cans that are swollen, dented or corroded, even though the product may look safe to eat.
• Eat any food that looks or smells abnormal, even if the can looks normal.
• Let garbage accumulate inside, both for fire and sanitation reasons.

For more information on food safety and supplies visit FEMA's website.

A power outage may last for several days, so it's important to stock up on canned foods, dry mixes, and other non-perishable items that don't require refrigeration, cooking, water, or special preparation.

Consider the following when putting your emergency food list:

• Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener
• Protein or fruit bars
• Dry cereal or granola
• Peanut butter
• Dried fruit
• Canned juices
• Non-perishable pasteurized milk
• High-energy foods
• Food for infants
• Comfort/stress foods

For more information on food safety and supplies visit FEMA's website.