Summer blackouts are becoming more frequent and severe, yet most homeowners are woefully unprepared. A new guide from CNET outlines nine practical steps you can take now to stay safe and comfortable when the grid goes down this summer. The guide, published in early June 2024, covers everything from cooling supplies to backup power, targeting residents in heat-prone regions across the United States.
As climate change fuels record-breaking heatwaves, the U.S. power grid faces unprecedented strain. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) warned this spring that the central and western U.S. face elevated blackout risks this summer due to extreme heat and aging infrastructure. Last year, nearly 60 million Americans experienced at least one weather-related power outage. The new CNET guide arrives just as millions begin cranking up their air conditioners, making timely preparation essential.
The guide recommends nine specific actions. First, check your air conditioner's efficiency and consider a window unit if central AC is unreliable. Second, create an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit. Third, invest in backup power—either a portable generator, solar-powered battery pack, or even a power bank for small devices. Fourth, identify cooling alternatives: battery-operated fans, misting bottles, or visiting public cooling centers. Fifth, protect electronics with surge protectors and unplug sensitive devices before an outage. Sixth, have a family communication plan, including a battery-powered radio. Seventh, learn how to safely operate a generator to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Eighth, secure loose outdoor items that could become projectiles. Ninth, consider signing up for emergency alerts from your local utility.
Experts emphasize that simple actions can dramatically improve outcomes. Dr. Emily Carter, a disaster preparedness researcher at Stanford, notes that "the first 48 hours of a blackout are the most critical, and having supplies ready reduces panic." The guide also warns against common mistakes, such as using gas stoves for heat indoors or running generators inside garages.
Looking ahead, the frequency of summer blackouts is expected to rise. The U.S. Department of Energy is investing $10 billion in grid modernization, but benefits won't materialize for years. For now, personal preparedness remains the best defense. As one utility spokesperson told CNET, "We're working hard to keep the lights on, but families need to take responsibility for their own safety." The CNET guide provides a practical roadmap for doing just that, making it essential reading for anyone living in a hot climate this summer.
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9 Things to Do Before a Summer Blackout Hits Your Home
From cooling supplies to backup power, these nine steps can help you stay safe and comfortable when the grid goes down this summer.
Sean Jackson
CNET
3 min read
6/10
Key Takeaways
- The North American Electric Reliability Corporation warned that central and western U.S. face elevated blackout risk in summer 2024 due to extreme heat and aging infrastructure.
- Nearly 60 million Americans experienced at least one weather-related power outage in 2023, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
- CNET's nine-step guide includes checking air conditioner efficiency, assembling an emergency kit with 72 hours of supplies, and investing in backup power like solar battery packs.
- Portable generators cause an average of 70 deaths per year from carbon monoxide poisoning, highlighting the need for safe operation practices.
- The U.S. Department of Energy has allocated $10 billion for grid modernization, but most upgrades won't be operational until after 2026.
"The first 48 hours of a blackout are the most critical, and having supplies ready reduces panic."
"We're working hard to keep the lights on, but families need to take responsibility for their own safety."
Frequently Asked Questions
A basic blackout emergency kit should include water (one gallon per person per day for three days), non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a battery-powered radio, and a manual can opener. Keep the kit in an easily accessible location.
During a blackout, keep curtains and blinds closed to block sunlight. Use battery-operated fans, damp towels, or a misting bottle to stay cool. If heat is extreme, consider visiting a public cooling center or a friend's home with power.
The best backup power source depends on your needs. For essential electronics, a portable power bank works. For refrigerators and lights, a portable generator or solar-powered battery system (like a Tesla Powerwall) provides more capacity. Always follow safety guidelines to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Unplug sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, and microwaves to prevent damage from power surges when electricity returns. Use surge protectors for devices that must remain plugged in. Consider a whole-home surge protector for comprehensive protection.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A full freezer can keep food safe for up to 48 hours; a half-full one for 24 hours. Use a cooler with ice for perishables. When in doubt, throw out any food that has been above 40°F for more than two hours.
Use a battery-powered radio to listen for official instructions. If you need emergency assistance, call 911 if phone lines are working. A whistle or flashlight can signal neighbors or rescue crews. Have a family communication plan in place so everyone knows where to meet.
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