How To Prepare For A Power Outage Or Storm In Houston
How to Prepare for a Power Outage or Storm When You Don’t Have a Home Backup Generator
Proper storm preparedness in Houston can make all the difference when a power outage strikes. Follow these steps to be ready with an outage kit, emergency plans, and reliable backup power sources to help keep yourself, your family, and any pets you may have as safe as possible.
Before an Outage
Prepare a Power Outage Kit
Before a power outage hits, it’s important to have a well-stocked kit ready to keep your family safe and comfortable. Here are power outage necessities to include:
- Battery-powered radio
- Blankets, pillows and extra layers of clothing
- Bottled water for drinking and sanitation
- Cash in small bills
- Cooler for keeping food cold
- Easy-to-prepare, non-perishable food
- Emergency contact information
- Fire extinguisher and functioning smoke detectors
- First-aid kit
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Important documents and medical information
- Manual can and bottle openers
- Pet food and essentials
- Portable chargers for electronic devices
- Simple entertainment like books and cards
Other steps on how to prepare for a blackout:
- Close shut-off valves to prevent pipes from bursting during extreme cold.
- Ensure you have access to a corded landline phone or a fully charged cell phone.
- Freeze containers of water to help keep perishable foods cold during prolonged outages.
- Have an evacuation plan if staying at home becomes unsafe.
- If you rely on well water, fill containers and bathtubs with water.
- Keep your car’s gas tank full in case evacuation is necessary.
- Stock up on kindling and wood if you use a fireplace or wood stove for heat.
Stay Informed and Know How to Access Resources
Familiarize yourself with resources such as the Storm Center, where you can access updates and emergency alerts. If you need to evacuate before a storm or if your home becomes uninhabitable, use the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) Locator or text DRC and your ZIP code to 43362 (e.g., Shelter 77002). You can also find open shelters and disaster relief services through the American Red Cross.
During a Power Outage in Houston
When your power goes out, there are several important steps you can take to stay safe and manage the situation effectively.
Report the Issue
First, check your circuit breakers or fuses to ensure the outage isn’t caused by an internal issue. If everything seems fine, report the outage to your power company using their app or customer service line.
During an Extended Outage
- Food Safety: Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. A full freezer can preserve food for 48 hours, and a refr
- Portable Generator Safety: Only use generators outdoors and with proper ventilation.
- Stay Comfortable: In hot weather, wear light clothing and stay hydrated. In cold weather, dress in layers, close u
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates and power restoration information.
- Turn Off Major Appliances: Shut down what was on when the outage occurred, such as the HVAC system, lights
After an Outage
When power has been restored, there are still a few important actions to take.
Contact Loved Ones
Let your loved ones know that you’re okay and ensure they are, too. If you’re unable to reach someone, use the Red Cross’s Contact Loved Ones service.
Inspect Your Home and Property
Check for damage and avoid downed power lines. If you see a downed power line, immediately report it to your energy company.
Maintain Food Safety
Discard any perishable food that was without refrigeration for more than four hours.
Check Reported Power Outages in Your Area
It’s important to know how to check the status of power outages in Houston. View live updates courtesy of PowerOutage.us on our Power Outage Map page. Click or tap the map for information by state and county.
How a Generator Helps You Be Prepared
A whole-home Generac generator from Canter Power ensures your home stays powered during outages, no matter how long they last. Whether it’s a severe storm, a hurricane, or an unexpected blackout, a generator can keep essential systems running. This includes heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, lighting, electronics, medical equipment, and security systems.
For all the details about generator selection and installation, see our Buyer’s Guide or let one of our Generator Specialists do the work for you by scheduling a free estimate. Your free at-home or virtual estimate is one of the best ways to start preparing for the next power outage.