Power Outage Kit
Three free tools for when the power goes out, or before it does: size a generator, check your food, and plan your backup batteries. The figures come from a utility's sizing guide, Generac, Anker, FoodSafety.gov, the USDA and CPSC.
Stay safe first
Generator safety (CPSC): run a portable generator outdoors only, at least 20 feet from homes and buildings, with the exhaust pointed away from windows, doors and vents. Never run one in a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or shed, even with the doors open: generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which you can't see or smell and which can kill within minutes. Put battery or battery-backup CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas, and test them monthly.
Never plug a generator into a wall outlet to power the house ("backfeeding"): CPSC says it can electrocute utility workers and neighbors and bypasses some of your home's built-in circuit protection. Look for generators with a CO shut-off; CPSC points to models certified to PGMA G300-2023 and UL 2201-2023.
- Keep fuel for the generator outside the living space, in labeled, non-glass safety containers, and let the generator cool before refueling (CPSC).
- Use heavy-duty outdoor extension cords rated for more than the total wattage plugged into them (CPSC).
- Keep the fridge and freezer closed: a closed fridge keeps food safe for about 4 hours, a full freezer about 48 (USDA).
- Use flashlights or battery candles rather than candles, and never use charcoal indoors (CPSC).
More of the power outage kit
Shopping? See our rankings of portable generators, portable solar generators and chest freezers.
How we built this
Every fact on this page comes from the sources listed below, read on . Where an organization doesn't publish a clear answer, we say so and tell you where to look instead of guessing.
- CPSC: Generator, carbon monoxide and fire hazards (May 27, 2026)
- CPSC Safety Alert: Portable generator hazards
- USDA FSIS: Keeping food safe during an emergency
- FoodSafety.gov: Food safety during a power outage
- EWEB (Eugene Water & Electric Board): Generator sizing considerations
- Generac: Generator wattage worksheet
- Anker SOLIX: How long will a power station last?
Spotted a mistake or a change? Email [email protected] (see our contact page) with what's wrong. Ezvid Wiki is published by Ezvid, Inc. and isn't connected to any company named here. How we research.