Power’s Out: How to Stay Safe in Extreme Temperatures

Power outages can happen anytime—but when they strike during freezing temperatures or extreme heat, the stakes are much higher. Losing electricity means no central heat or air conditioning, limited ways to cook or stay informed, and increased health risks. Whether it’s a blizzard, ice storm, summer wildfire, or heat wave causing the outage, here’s what you need to know to stay safe, stay cool (or warm), and stay ready.

If the Power Goes Out During Freezing Temperatures

1. Retain Heat Indoors

• Close off unused rooms to conserve warmth.
• Hang blankets over windows and doorways.
• Use towels to block drafts around doors.
• Stay in one room if possible—preferably one with good insulation and sunlight during the day.
• Pitch a tent in the room and keep the entire family in the tent with blankets, sleeping bags. This will help keep the warmth closer to you. 

2. Dress for Warmth

• Layer clothing: base layer for moisture-wicking, insulating layer for warmth, and a shell to block wind.
• Wear a hat, gloves, socks, and multiple layers to trap body heat.
• Sleep in a sleeping bag or under multiple heavy blankets.

3. Use Safe Heat Sources

• Only use indoor-rated heaters.
• NEVER use gas stoves, charcoal grills, or generators indoors—they produce deadly carbon monoxide.
• If using a fireplace or wood stove, ensure proper ventilation.
• Light candles carefully and never leave them unattended.

4. Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
• Let faucets drip to prevent freezing.
• Shut off the main water supply if pipes have frozen or burst.

5. Stay Informed

• Use a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for weather updates.
• Conserve phone battery for emergencies—text instead of call when possible.

If the Power Goes Out During Extreme Heat

1. Keep Cool Indoors

• Close blinds and curtains during the day to block sunlight.
• Open windows at night if temperatures drop.
• Hang damp sheets in doorways to create a cooling effect as air passes through.

2. Stay Hydrated

• Drink water frequently—even if you’re not thirsty.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which dehydrate you.
• Use a cooler with ice to keep water bottles chilled.

3. Cool Your Body

• Use wet washcloths on your neck, wrists, and ankles.
• Take sponge baths or mist yourself with water and sit near a breeze.
• Wear loose, light-colored clothing and stay in the shade when outdoors.

4. Use Battery-Operated Fans

• Small, portable fans can offer relief, especially if used with wet cloths or near open windows at night.
• Avoid overexertion. Rest during the hottest part of the day (typically 2–6 p.m.).

5. Watch for Heat-Related Illnesses

• Signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, headache, nausea, heavy sweating.
• Signs of heat stroke: confusion, rapid heartbeat, hot/dry skin, unconsciousness.
• Move to a cooler place, hydrate, and seek medical help if symptoms are severe.

Preparedness Tips for Both Scenarios

Backup Power: Invest in solar chargers, battery banks, or generators (used safely outdoors). Check out this article on inexpensive backup power.

Emergency Kit: Include thermal blankets, water, electrolyte tablets, battery-powered fans, and a first aid kit. Check out this article on creating emergency kits.

Communication Plan: Know how to contact loved ones and emergency services without relying on Wi-Fi or cell towers.

Community Resources: Know where to go—warming or cooling shelters, community centers, libraries, etc.

You can’t control the weather or the grid, but you can control how ready you are. Planning ahead and knowing what to do during a power outage in extreme temperatures can keep you and your family safe, comfortable, and resilient.