What to Turn Off During a Power Outage for Safety

Everyone · How-to · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What do you need before starting to turn off appliances during a power outage?

Before you begin turning off devices during a power outage, gather several essential items to ensure safety and smooth action. First, have a reliable flashlight or battery-powered lantern ready for safe navigation in the dark—avoid using candles, which can cause fires. Check that you have fresh batteries for these lights, and keep a portable phone charger handy to maintain communication. Make a list of major appliances and electronics in your home, such as refrigerators, freezers, computers, televisions, heating and cooling units, water heaters, and sump pumps. Knowing what you have helps prioritize what to turn off or unplug first. Also, keep your utility company’s emergency phone number and any outage reporting apps accessible. Before the outage, consider writing down your home’s circuit breaker labels so you know which switches control which areas or devices. This preparation saves time and reduces confusion during stressful moments. Additionally, have a safe place planned where your family can gather, with blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks on hand, so everyone remains calm and comfortable while the power is out.

What is the first step to take when the power goes out?

When the power suddenly goes out, your first priority is to protect your electrical devices from damage. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Turn off and unplug small appliances and electronics immediately. This includes chargers, computers, TVs, microwaves, and coffee makers. By unplugging these devices, you prevent damage from the power surge that often occurs when electricity is restored. For example, if your laptop or TV is plugged in and the power comes back suddenly, the surge can fry sensitive components.
2. Switch off major appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dryers, and HVAC systems. These machines draw a lot of power when restarting. By turning them off, you avoid overloading your home’s electrical system and tripping breakers when power returns.
3. Keep essential appliances like refrigerators and freezers closed. Opening the doors lets cold air escape, speeding up food spoilage. If you decide to keep them off, plan to consume or freeze perishables quickly once power returns.
4. Turn off electric water heaters and sump pumps. These devices can cause disruptions if they restart automatically at full power. Turning them off prevents damage and reduces strain on the electrical system.
5. Only switch off your main circuit breaker if instructed by your utility provider. This step isolates your home’s electrical system from the grid, protecting your wiring and appliances from surges. However, not all outages require this, so follow official guidance carefully.

Following these steps in this order minimizes risks and preserves your home’s electrical integrity during an outage.

How do you know your steps worked?

After completing the shutdown steps, you can assess if they successfully protected your home’s electrical system. When power is restored, observe closely as you turn devices back on one by one. Start by turning on the main circuit breaker if you turned it off, then power up large appliances first, such as refrigerators and HVAC units, followed by smaller electronics. If the power stays stable without breakers tripping or sparks flying, your preparation worked. Also, check each device for normal operation—computers should boot up without errors, and appliances should run smoothly without unusual noises or smells. If you notice any breakers tripping again or devices failing to start, turn those items off immediately and consult a professional electrician. For refrigerators and freezers, check the temperature after power returns. If food has remained cold (below 40°F for the fridge and 0°F for the freezer), it is generally safe to keep. If temperatures rose significantly, discard perishable items to avoid foodborne illness. These observations confirm whether your outage precautions helped avoid damage and maintain safety.

What should you do if something goes wrong during the outage?

Despite careful preparation, issues can arise during a power outage. If you notice sparks, burning smells, or hear continuous breaker clicks, immediately turn off the main breaker to eliminate electrical hazards. Do not attempt to reset breakers repeatedly as this can cause further damage or fire risk. Contact a licensed electrician as soon as possible to inspect your home’s wiring and appliances safely. If the outage is caused by a weather event or widespread problem, call your utility provider to report the issue and receive updates. If you lose heating during cold weather or cooling during heat waves, consider relocating temporarily to a friend’s house, shelter, or community center with power. For medical devices dependent on electricity, have backup battery packs or alternative power sources ready and inform your healthcare provider about outage plans. Never use gas-powered generators, grills, or stoves indoors, as they produce deadly carbon monoxide. If you feel faint or dizzy indoors during an outage, call 988 or emergency services immediately for help. Always prioritize safety and seek professional help if electrical problems occur.

How can these steps be adapted for different households?

Different households have varying needs, so adapting power outage steps ensures everyone stays safe. For seniors or people with mobility challenges, assign a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor to help unplug devices and manage breaker panels. Households with infants or young children should keep flashlights and comfort items handy to ease anxiety in the dark. Families with medical equipment requiring continuous power, such as CPAP machines or oxygen concentrators, must have backup batteries or generators with proper ventilation. Renters should familiarize themselves with their building’s electrical system and coordinate with landlords on outage plans. Large homes or those with multiple circuit breaker panels require labeling switches clearly to prevent confusion during shutdowns. Encourage all family members to learn the procedure and assign roles, such as who handles lights, who manages the breaker box, and who watches for updates. Practicing outage drills builds confidence and ensures everyone knows what to do calmly. Tailoring these steps to your household increases preparedness and reduces stress during power loss.

What other safety precautions should be taken during a power outage?

In addition to turning off devices, maintain overall safety by avoiding open flames like candles, which can easily cause house fires. Use battery-powered lights instead. Never use gas-powered heating or cooking appliances indoors, as carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk. Only use generators outdoors, away from windows, doors, or vents, and follow manufacturer safety instructions strictly. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio accessible to receive emergency information if cell phones lose signal. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve cold temperatures and reduce food spoilage; a full freezer can keep food frozen for up to 48 hours if unopened. Stock your home with bottled water, non-perishable food, blankets, and a first aid kit to handle extended outages. Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms regularly; many have battery backups to stay functional during power loss. Preparing this way minimizes risks and helps your family stay safe and comfortable until power is restored.

How can you prepare ahead for power outages?

Preparing before a power outage increases safety and reduces hassle. Start by assembling an emergency kit with essentials: flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, canned or packaged food, a manual can opener, blankets, and a first aid kit. Keep a list of important phone numbers, including your utility company and local emergency services. Label your circuit breaker panel clearly so you can quickly identify switches. Learn how to safely turn breakers on and off. Charge all mobile devices and keep portable chargers ready. Consider investing in surge protectors for sensitive electronics and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units for computers or medical devices. Discuss your outage plan with family members, designating roles to unplug devices, operate breakers, and monitor safety. Practice the plan so everyone feels confident. Finally, stay informed about local weather and power outage risks in your area and sign up for outage alerts. Advance preparation ensures your household can handle power interruptions with minimal risk and inconvenience.

Frequently asked questions

Should I unplug all devices during a power outage?

Unplugging sensitive electronics and small appliances protects them from damage caused by power surges when electricity returns. Essential appliances like refrigerators may be left plugged in but turned off or monitored closely.

Can I leave my refrigerator running during a power outage?

It’s safer to turn off the refrigerator to prevent damage from surges, but if you keep it on, minimize door openings to maintain food safety and delay spoilage.

When should I turn off the main circuit breaker?

Only turn off the main breaker if your utility company or emergency instructions advise it. This protects your home from electrical surges but must be done with caution.

What if my circuit breaker keeps tripping after power returns?

Repeated tripping indicates an electrical problem. Turn off affected breakers and unplug devices, then contact a licensed electrician to inspect your system safely.

How can I safely use a generator during a power outage?

Always operate generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use a generator inside your home or garage.

What should I include in an emergency kit for power outages?

Include flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, a manual can opener, a battery-powered radio, first aid supplies, and necessary medications for your household.