Winter Storm? What to Do If You Lose Power or Heat

When a winter storm hits, most advice focuses on preparing ahead of time. But what about the moment you’re actually in it, when the lights go out, the house gets quiet, and temperatures start to drop?

If you lose power or heat during a winter storm, here’s what to do step by step to stay safe, warm, and calm until things are restored.

• Simple Ways Seniors Can Protect Their Vision During Winter
• Emergency Winter Prep for Seniors: How to Stay Safe During Storms and Power Outages

1. Start With Light and Visibility

As soon as the power goes out, focus on being able to see safely.

• Use flashlights, not candles
• Keep one near your bed and one in the main living area
• Turn off overhead lights so you know when power returns
• If it’s dark outside, avoid moving around the house unnecessarily

Falls are more likely during outages, especially in low light.

2. Keep Heat In and Cold Out

If your heat stops working, conserving warmth becomes the priority.

Do this right away:

• Close curtains and blinds
• Shut doors to unused rooms
• Roll towels or blankets along door bottoms
• Stay in one main room if possible

If you have a fireplace, use it only if it’s designed for safe indoor heating and never leave it unattended.

3. Dress for Warmth Indoors

Layering makes a big difference.

Aim for:

• Long sleeves and pants
• Socks or slippers with traction
• A sweater or fleece layer
• A blanket or throw within reach

Covering your head with a soft hat can help retain body heat if temperatures drop significantly indoors.

4. Be Careful With Alternative Heat Sources

This is where many accidents happen.

Avoid:

• Using grills or propane heaters indoors
• Running generators inside or near windows
• Leaving space heaters unattended or near fabrics

If you use a space heater:

• Keep it at least 3 feet from anything flammable
• Plug it directly into the wall (no extension cords)
• Turn it off when sleeping

5. Manage Food and Medications Wisely

If the outage lasts more than a couple of hours:

• Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
• Eat foods that don’t require heating or heavy prep
• Take medications as scheduled
• If medication requires refrigeration, minimize how often you open the fridge

Staying hydrated is just as important as staying warm.

6. Conserve Phone Battery and Stay Connected

Your phone may be your main link to updates or help.

• Lower screen brightness
• Close unnecessary apps
• Avoid streaming or scrolling
• Send check-in texts instead of long calls

If service is spotty, having important numbers written down is helpful.

7. Know When to Ask for Help

Don’t wait too long if conditions become unsafe.

Call for help if:

• Indoor temperatures drop dangerously low
• You feel dizzy, confused, or extremely cold
• Medical equipment stops working
• You are at risk of falling or injury

Checking in with a neighbor or family member can also provide peace of mind.

8. Focus on Calm and Comfort

Winter storms can feel unsettling, especially when alerts keep sounding.

Try to:

• Stick to a simple routine
• Read, listen to music, or do a quiet activity
• Sip something warm if possible
• Rest when you can

Staying calm helps you think clearly and make safer decisions.

One Last Reassurance

Most winter power outages are temporary. Having a plan for during the storm helps you feel steady and in control, even when the weather isn’t.

If you haven’t already, our Emergency Winter Prep for Seniors guide covers how to prepare before storms arrive. This post is about getting through the storm safely one step at a time.

Stay warm. Stay safe. And take care of yourself!

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