A sudden blackout can throw your world into chaos, leaving you fumbling for flashlights and wondering how long you’ll be without power. Whether caused by severe weather, a failing grid, or even sabotage, power outages can happen at any time, and being unprepared can turn an inconvenience into a crisis. Unfortunately, many people make serious mistakes during a blackout – mistakes that can put their health, safety, and security at risk. If you want to be ready when the lights go out, avoid these six critical blackout survival mistakes that could leave you in the dark – literally and figuratively.
1. Overlooking Water Storage and Sanitation
It’s easy to focus on the lack of electricity, but what about water? If your home’s water supply relies on electric pumps or if municipal water services shut down, you could quickly run out of safe drinking water. Many people assume they can rely on their taps, but once water pressure drops or contamination becomes an issue, they’re left scrambling for alternatives.
The rule of thumb is one gallon of water per person per day, but in a prolonged blackout, even that might not be enough for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Storing extra water in sealed containers, keeping water purification tablets or filters on hand, and knowing how to safely collect and purify rainwater can be lifesavers. Sanitation is just as important – without running water, toilets won’t flush, and a backup plan like a bucket toilet system with absorbent material (such as kitty litter) can prevent serious hygiene problems.
2. Using Generators Indoors or Unsafely
A generator can be a lifesaver during an outage, but using it incorrectly can turn deadly. One of the most common and deadly mistakes is running a generator indoors, in a garage, or too close to a home’s windows or doors. This can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, which is invisible, odorless, and extremely lethal.
To stay safe, always place generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your home, with the exhaust pointing away from windows and doors. If you’re worried about rain, invest in a generator tent or build a ventilated cover. Also, never attempt backfeeding (plugging a generator directly into a home’s outlet to power the house). This can send electricity back into the grid, endangering utility workers and potentially frying your home’s electrical system. Instead, install a transfer switch for safe power distribution.
3. Failing to Secure Food Properly
When the power goes out, your refrigerator and freezer become ticking time bombs. An unopened fridge can keep food cold for about four hours, and a full freezer can last up to 48 hours – but only if you don’t constantly open them. Many people waste valuable cooling time by repeatedly checking inside, letting out cold air and speeding up food spoilage.
A simple way to extend food preservation is to freeze bottles of water ahead of time, which can act as makeshift ice packs to keep temperatures lower for longer. Having a backup cooler with ice for essentials can help you avoid unnecessary fridge openings. And when in doubt, check food temperatures – if perishable items have been above 40°F for more than two hours, they should be thrown out.
4. Relying on Open Flames for Light and Heat
Candles and oil lamps might seem like old-school blackout solutions, but they come with serious risks. In a house full of people, pets, or clutter, an open flame can quickly turn into a deadly fire hazard. Candles tip over, curtains catch fire, and suddenly, you’re dealing with an emergency far worse than a blackout.
A much safer alternative is battery-powered LED lanterns, flashlights, and headlamps. Many solar-powered and crank-operated lanterns are available, providing safe, long-lasting illumination without the risk of fire. If you must use candles, keep them away from anything flammable, never leave them unattended, and have a fire extinguisher ready just in case.
5. Ignoring Home Security During a Blackout
Blackouts aren’t just inconvenient – they can also attract crime. When streetlights go dark and alarm systems shut off, homes become easier targets for burglars. Many people assume power outages bring out the best in communities, but desperation can lead to dangerous situations.
To protect your home, keep doors and windows locked, use battery-powered security alarms, and consider solar-powered outdoor lights to keep your property illuminated. If you have a generator, be mindful of the noise – a loud generator in a silent neighborhood can attract unwanted attention from opportunistic criminals. Staying low-profile and maintaining good situational awareness can go a long way in keeping your home safe during a blackout.
6. Assuming the Blackout Will Be Short
One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming power will come back soon. While some outages are resolved within hours, others can stretch into days or even weeks. If you only have a 24-hour emergency plan, you could find yourself in serious trouble if the blackout lasts longer than expected.
Instead of hoping for the best, prepare for the worst. Stock up on food, water, and medical supplies for at least two weeks. Invest in alternative power sources like solar chargers for small electronics and backup battery packs. Create a long-term survival plan, including ways to cook without power, methods to stay warm in winter, and strategies to keep cool in summer.
Why You Should Start Preparing Now
A blackout might seem like a temporary inconvenience, but when it drags on, it can become a life-threatening crisis. With the increasing risks of grid failures, extreme weather, and potential sabotage, having a solid blackout preparedness plan isn’t just smart – it’s essential.
Taking small steps today – like storing extra water, getting a battery-powered light source, and having a backup cooking method – can mean the difference between being comfortable and being in crisis when the power goes out.
Adapting to Off-Grid Living
A long-term blackout is essentially a test of off-grid survival skills. While most people are dependent on electricity for everything, learning basic self-sufficiency techniques can help you adapt. Cooking without power, filtering water, and securing your home are essential skills anyone can learn.
Prepping for a blackout doesn’t mean you have to go full doomsday survivalist – it simply means having the right supplies and knowledge to keep yourself and your family safe until the grid comes back online.
The Psychological Toll of a Blackout
While most people focus on food, water, and security during a blackout, mental well-being is just as important. Extended outages can cause stress, frustration, and even panic, especially if there’s uncertainty about when power will return. Boredom, isolation, and a lack of communication can also wear down morale. To stay mentally strong, have a plan for entertainment, such as books, board games, or puzzles.
If possible, maintain communication with family, friends, or neighbors using battery-powered radios or two-way walkie-talkies. A positive mindset and structured routine can help keep you and your household calm and focused, preventing small frustrations from turning into major problems.
Stay Ready, Not Reactive
The best way to survive a blackout is to prepare ahead of time. You don’t want to be one of those people rushing to the store for supplies when the power’s already out. Instead, build a solid emergency kit, develop a plan, and avoid these critical mistakes so you can stay safe, secure, and in control – no matter how long the lights stay off.
By taking the right precautions, a blackout doesn’t have to be a disaster. It can be an inconvenience you’re fully prepared to handle. Will you be ready when the next blackout hits?
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, John developed a love for the great outdoors early on. With years of experience as a wilderness guide, he’s navigated rugged terrains and unpredictable weather patterns. John is also an avid hunter and fisherman who believes in sustainable living. His focus on practical survival skills, from building shelters to purifying water, reflects his passion for preparedness. When he’s not out in the wild, you can find him sharing his knowledge through writing, hoping to inspire others to embrace self-reliance.