---
title: "12 Things You Should Have at the Ready in Case the Power Goes Out"
description: "Prepare for a power outage with this checklist of essentials: generators, flashlights, emergency radios, and more."
date: "2021-04-05"
modified: "2026-01-22"
authors:
  - name: "Alexa Erickson"
    job_title: "Contributing Writer"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/alexa-erickson/"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/15-things-you-should-have-at-the-ready-in-case-the-power-goes-out-579466/"
categories:
  - "Energy & Power"
  - "Exterior"
  - "Generators"
tags:
  - "safety"
  - "Storms & Disasters"
---

# 12 Things You Should Have at the Ready in Case the Power Goes Out

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Lights.jpeg>)

When [the power goes out](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/what-not-to-do-in-a-power-outage/>), life comes to an abrupt halt. Whether it shuts off in the middle of the day while you’re trying to work, or eerily snuffs out in the evening during dinner or TV time, losing power changes everything in a second. To make dealing with a power outage both safe and manageable, it’s important to keep emergency supplies close at hand. Here’s a checklist of essential items—generators, flashlights, emergency radios, and more—that will help keep you safe, connected, and comfortable amid scarcity.

## Author
Alexa Erickson is a lifestyle writer and former BobVila.com staff member. Her areas of expertise include travel, food and drink, home decorating, home improvement, health and wellness, and beauty.

### Author social links  
[Instagram](<https://www.instagram.com/living_by_lex/>)