What to Do During a Prolonged Power Outage

Don't open the fridge unless absolutely necessary — food stays safe for about 4 hours if the door stays closed, and a full freezer holds for 48 hours. Use flashlights instead of candles to avoid fire risk. Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may depend on electric medical equipment. If you're using a generator, run it outdoors only — carbon monoxide from generators kills people indoors every year. Before power returns, unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from the voltage surge.