POWER & LIGHT

Keep the essentials going.

Start with the situation you face. Then choose the lighting and backup power that fit it.

My power is out I’m preparing ahead

Survivor Ready · Sources checked September 9, 2026

Match the tool to the taskUse these prompts alongside the detailed guidance on this page.

See

Choose lighting for the room or task.

Communicate

Match your phone, cable and backup supply.

Keep essentials working

Identify loads that need a separate power plan.

Find the answer you need.

AI-generated illustration: Illustrative living room with a battery lantern and portable power station

START WITH THE SCENARIO

Power outage guide

Immediate actions, decisions, and a plan for your household.

Open guide

AI-generated illustration: A battery lantern lighting a table beside a headlamp and flashlight

GEAR GUIDE

Emergency lighting

Flashlight, headlamp, or lantern? Match the light to the job.

Open guide

AI-generated illustration: Hands connecting a phone to a portable power bank on an entryway table.

BUYING GUIDE

Choose backup power

Understand watts, capacity, and the limits before spending.

Open guide

Refrigerator and freezer thermometer, manufacturer product photo

QUICK REFERENCE

Fridge & freezer safety

Time windows, temperature checks, and when to discard food.

Open guide

See the difference before you shop.

Hands free

Wear a headlamp for a directed beam wherever you look.

Packing · reading · tasks

A pocket backup

Keep a small flashlight close for quick checks.

Finding · checking · moving

A shared space

Use an area lantern for a table or gathering spot.

Eating · planning · company

Product examples shown. Brightness and runtime vary by setting.

Find useful gear:Compare 3 lights Compare 3 power options

Give every purchase a job.

Priority	Start here	Consider an upgrade when…
See safely	A working flashlight and spare batteries.	A headlamp would free your hands or a lantern would light a shared room.
Stay reachable	A charged phone power bank and the correct cable.	You need compatible output for a laptop or multiple devices.
Power an appliance	List the device’s running and starting requirements.	The task justifies a suitable power station and a recharging plan.

These are buying criteria, not hands-on product rankings. An expensive battery is only useful if it can run the equipment you need for long enough.

Sources & editorial notes

Sources checked September 9, 2026. Prepared by Survivor Ready, an independent resource created by Chris McGuire. AI assists drafting and illustrative imagery. This page has not received independent expert review. Follow local emergency instructions and individual professional advice.