THE ESSENTIAL ACTION
Never use an oven, barbecue, or outdoor camping stove to heat your home.
Before: make the plan
- Store warm layers, blankets, food, water, lighting, and charged batteries.
- Check weather warnings before travelling and keep a cold-weather kit in your vehicle.
- Identify a heated place to relocate if your home loses heat, with accessible transport.
During: protect people
- Stay off roads when officials advise against travel. Tell someone your route if travel is essential.
- Keep generators outdoors and away from openings. Use working carbon monoxide alarms.
- Protect people and pets from cold. Seek medical help for suspected hypothermia or frostbite.
After: recover carefully
- Watch for ice, damaged trees, and overhead power lines. Avoid overexertion when clearing snow.
- Check on neighbours and replenish supplies before the next weather system.
Published by the Beforetheoutage.com editorial desk.
Read the official guidance
Source links included 3 October 2026. Guidance must be adapted to your country, building, and personal circumstances.
