Ready in 5 · Lesson 4 of 6 · About 5 minutes
Power outage
A power outage happens when the electricity stops. Source: Ready.gov Kids (opens in a new tab)
Go at your own pace. You can do this lesson alone or with a support person. Read each question, think about your answer, then press Show the answer.
Step 1: Identify the alert
How do you know there is a power outage?
Think about your answer first. Then check it.
Show the answer
The lights go out and the TV turns off.
Step 2: Stay or go
Do you stay where you are, or run out the door?
Think about your answer first. Then check it.
Show the answer
Stay where you are and use your training.
Step 3: Call 911 or not
Do you call 911?
Think about your answer first. Then check it.
Show the answer
No. 911 can't turn the power back on.
Step 4: Stay calm
You know what to do. Let's take a minute to calm down.
- Take a deep breath in.
- Slowly let it out.
- Try it one more time: breathe in, then slowly breathe out.
Step 5: Take action: Flashlight, window, call
Practice these three steps. Say them out loud, then act them out.
- 1st
FLASHLIGHT!
Get your flashlight and turn it on, so you can walk around safely.
- 2nd
WINDOW!
Look out the window. Are the other houses dark too? In a big building, check the hallway.
- 3rd
CALL!
Worried? Call your support person, the one who knows how to fix things. Keep their number on your cue card.
While you wait for the power
- Keep the fridge and freezer closed. Food stays cold for hours if the doors stay shut. A full freezer can stay cold for up to a day.
- Unplug electronics like the TV, computer, and microwave. When the power comes back, a burst of electricity can damage them.
- Save your phone battery. Your phone is helpful, but the battery won't last forever. Use your flashlight to see.
- Check your flashlight. Is it bright or dim? If it's dim, change the batteries.
Quick quiz: True or false? You should leave the fridge door open to cool down the room.
Show the answer
False. Keep the fridge closed. If you leave it open, your food will spoil.
Your power outage drill card
Print this card and keep it in your wallet, on a lanyard, or by the door. The pictures show the three steps.
Finished the lesson?
Mark it done to keep track on the training page. This is saved only on this device.
Learn more
- Ready.gov Kids: Power outages (opens in a new tab)
- What to do during and after a power outage (video) (opens in a new tab)From Toronto Hydro. Calm and slow.
- Helping an autistic child through a power outage (opens in a new tab)Simple tips for practicing at home.
- Kibu: How to Handle a Power Outage (opens in a new tab)An 11-minute life skills lesson on the Kibu app.