Power Outage Preparation Checklist — 2026 Backup Guide

Backup Power

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Maintains critical systems during extended outages

⏱️ Professional installation 💰 $3000-15000

Communication and light without power

⏱️ Setup 30 min 💰 $50-150

Cell phones critical for emergency communication

⏱️ Monthly check 💰 $30-100

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Power restoration can damage electronics

⏱️ 30 minutes 💰 $50-200

May need to reset breakers after outage

⏱️ 15 minutes 💰 Free

Basic functions during extended outages

⏱️ Shopping 1 hour 💰 $20-75

Keep generators outside only

Stock non-perishable foods

Have cash on hand

Know how to manually open garage doors

Running generators indoors

Using candles for light instead of flashlights

Not turning off electronics before power restoration

Assuming outage will be brief