Winter Power Outage Without Unsafe Shortcuts
Original preparedness explainer · Reviewed as a draft October 29, 2026 · General U.S. guidance
It is tempting to use whatever burns when the heat goes off. That shortcut can produce carbon monoxide or fire.
Never use a gas oven, stovetop, camping stove, charcoal grill or unvented combustion device to heat indoor spaces. Keep generators outside away from openings.
Use layered clothing and identify a safe heated place before your home becomes dangerously cold.
Watch official winter weather alerts; prepare warm layers, safe home heating, food and medication supplies. Carbon monoxide alarms and safe generator placement matter especially during outages.
Put this into action
Choose one manageable improvement today. Confirm current warnings and local instructions with your city/county emergency management agency and the National Weather Service.