If the power has been out and may stay out for 3 days, here is what to do now: report it, protect food, stay warm or cool, and stay safe.
- Report the outage, keep fridge and freezer closed and charge only what you need.
- Eat perishables first, then no cook food. Stay warm or cool in one room.
- Check on neighbours and know when to go to a centre.
If your power is already out, start here. For planning ahead, see the hour by hour plan.
Do now
- Report it to your utility: local guides.
- Keep the fridge and freezer shut.
- Use a power bank for phones and conserve battery.
- Fill water containers if your supply could be affected.
Food
An unopened fridge holds for about 4 hours, a full freezer about 48. Eat perishables first. Keep a list of what to toss: guide.
Temperature
In winter, live in one closed room with layers: winter guide. In heat, see heat wave guide.
Safety
Never use barbecues, generators or fuel heaters indoors. See carbon monoxide.
If it lasts longer
Read a week long outage. For the 3 day headlines, see 3 day blackout in Canada.
Backup power picks (Canada)
Size the unit to your own load first: see the sizing guide.
Quick comparison
| Brand | Best for |
|---|---|
| BBLUETTI | Large lineup, expandable home systems |
| JJackery | Wide range, compact to home backup sizes |
Power stations and solar generators with fast charging. Compare capacity and warranty.
Larger capacity power stations that can run a fridge, with expandable batteries.
- Broad capacity range
- Expandable home-backup options
- Compare battery chemistry and stated cycle life
Popular portable power stations and solar kits for short outages.
- Has a Canadian storeHas a US store
- Small, mid and large models
- Compare capacity, output and warranty on the maker page
Quick answers
What should I do first with no power?
Report it, keep fridge doors shut and conserve phone battery.
How long does food last?
About 4 hours in a fridge and 48 hours in a full freezer.
When should I leave?
If it becomes dangerously cold or hot, go to a centre or a friend's home.