My Texas outage plan

Before the outage

• Charge every battery to 100%.
• Test-run the load list on the backup for 30 minutes.
• Write watts from the nameplate on any device not on the list.
• Battery CO alarms or CO alarms with battery backup outside bedrooms and on each floor; test monthly (CPSC).

Generator rules (CPSC)

• Outside only, at least 20 feet from the house; exhaust pointed away from the house and other buildings.
• Never inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed or on a porch, even with doors open.
• Not near doors, windows or vents.
• Consider a generator with automatic CO shut-off.
• CO alarm sounds: get outside, then call 911. Symptoms: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, confusion.

Food (FoodSafety.gov)

• Keep fridge and freezer doors closed.
• An unopened fridge keeps food safe about 4 hours.
• A full freezer holds about 48 hours; half full, about 24 hours.
• Throw out perishable food after 4 hours without power. When in doubt, throw it out.

Write-in numbers

My electric utility outage line

Neighbor to check on

Medical device supplier

Nearest warming or cooling center