The lights go out, and the card readers and Wi-Fi go with them

What stops working

• Card terminals, ATMs, and self-checkout at stores without backup power
• Home internet and, over time, some cell service
• Elevators, electric stoves, refrigerators, and freezers
• In some tall buildings, water pressure on upper floors
• Charging for phones and medical devices

What usually keeps working

• Battery-powered lights, radios, and power banks you charged beforehand
• Gas stoves in many homes (never use outdoor cooking or heating gear indoors)
• Stored water and no-cook food
• Stairs, if you've planned for them

First 24 hours

1. 1Switch to battery lights. Avoid candles where you can; they're a fire risk.
2. 2Keep the fridge and freezer closed. Public guidance says a closed fridge keeps food cold for about 4 hours and a full freezer for about 48. Check current guidance at FoodSafety.gov.
3. 3Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them when power returns.
4. 4Fill containers with tap water if pressure is still on and you haven't stored any.
5. 5Turn on a battery radio for restoration updates.

Days 2 to 7

• Eat perishables first, then pantry and no-cook food.
• Ration power bank use to phones, radio, and any medical devices.
• Keep a set routine: charge when you can, light only the room you're in, check on neighbors daily.
• If someone in your home depends on powered medical equipment, talk to your clinician and utility now about a backup plan. Many utilities keep a medical priority list.

Safety you can't skip

• Never run a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors or on a balcony next to a window. Carbon monoxide kills. Install a battery CO alarm.
• Most apartments aren't suitable for fuel generators at all. A battery power station is the realistic option for renters.

Apartment notes

• Walk your stairs once in the dark with a flashlight before you need to.
• Keep shoes, keys, and a light by the door.
• Upper floors may lose water pressure. Stored water matters more the higher you live.

Buy / Borrow / Skip