Power Outage Essentials: What to Do When the Lights Go Out
Power outages can happen fast—and last for hours or even days. Whether it’s caused by a hurricane, snowstorm, or overloaded grid, being prepared with the right blackout essentials can turn a stressful night into a calm, manageable situation.
Here’s what to do when the power goes out—and the emergency gear you’ll be glad you already had on hand.
1. Light Up Safely and Sustainably
Forget scrambling for batteries. Candles offer long-lasting light, warmth, and comfort during power outages.
Start with the UCO 15-Hour Emergency Candles (3-Pack), designed to:
- Burn clean and steady for up to 15 hours each
- Fit perfectly inside UCO candle lanterns
- Emit a soft, natural glow that won’t blind you in the dark
Prefer a natural option? UCO Natural Beeswax Candles (3-Pack) offer the same long burn time with a light honey scent—great for adding a little calm during chaos.
2. Use Candle Lanterns for Safer Ambient Lighting
Lanterns beat flashlights for long durations—and they add warmth, visibility, and even a touch of ambiance.
The UCO Original Candle Lantern is a go-to blackout essential:
- Protects flame inside a windproof glass chimney
- Lightweight, collapsible, and easy to store
- Safe, steady light for reading or walking through the house
Need more brightness or warmth? The Candlelier Lantern burns 3 candles at once and can gently warm small rooms.
3. Always Have Reliable Fire Starters on Hand
Lighting a stove or emergency heater? Don’t depend on cheap lighters or wet matches.
Keep a stash of UCO Stormproof Matches in your blackout kit. These matches:
- Stay lit in wind and rain
- Relight after being submerged
- Burn for 15+ seconds
Upgrade to the Titan Stormproof Matches for extra-long 25-second burn time—or grab the Stormproof Match Kit with waterproof case included.
4. Have a Safe Way to Cook
If the power is out for more than a day, you’ll want a way to heat food.
The UCO Flatpack Portable Grill & Firepit is compact, easy to use, and safe to set up outside for emergency cooking.
Pair it with your UCO Mess Kit and Eco Spork Utensil Set for a no-fuss meal station.
5. Stay Calm and Prepared
Other essentials for your power outage survival kit:
- Extra batteries & flashlight
- Fully charged power bank
- Dry snacks & canned food
- First-aid supplies
- A good book or game to pass the time
Final Tip: Don’t Wait for the Next Outage
The best time to prep is before the storm. Stock up now and avoid the scramble.