Power Outage Emergency Kit Checklist for Texas Homes

Power outages happen across Texas, often without warning. Whether it’s a storm, freeze or high winds, losing electricity disrupts daily life. On average, U.S. homes had an average of over five hours of outages in 2022, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). Preparing an emergency kit and communication plan helps keep your family safe and reduces stress when the power goes out.

Understanding Why Outages Happen

In Texas, common causes of power outages are most often tied to severe weather and physical equipment issues, which includes:

  • Severe storms: High winds, lightning strikes and heavy rains can damage infrastructure.
  • Winter weather: Ice accumulation on lines and freezing rain can weigh down wires.
  • Heat waves: Extreme temperatures can strain the electrical grid due to high demand.
  • Physical obstructions: Fallen tree limbs, debris or wildlife can come into contact with power lines.
  • Accidental damage: Vehicle accidents involving utility poles or construction crews can hit underground lines.

TXU Energy supplies your electricity and manages your billing, but your local Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) manages power lines and repairs during outages. If service is interrupted, the TDU restores power, but it’s important to be prepared at home until service returns.

Building Your Power Outage Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is key to staying safe and comfortable during a power outage. Keep a dedicated bin, bag or box in an easy-to-reach spot with enough supplies for everyone in your home for at least 24–72 hours. Use this checklist to get started or refresh your kit. 

1. Lighting and Visibility

Nighttime power outages can be risky. Be sure to have: 

  • Flashlights or headlamps, one for each person.
  • LED lanterns for room lighting.
  • Extra batteries.
  • Glow sticks to help kids stay visible and safe.

Note: Avoid relying on candles if possible. They pose a significant fire hazard, especially if left unattended or used near pets and children.

2. Food and Water

If the outage extends beyond a few hours, being prepared to deal with all nutrition and hydration needs without electricity will be essential.

  • Water: Have at least one gallon of water per person, per day—including pets.
  • Non-Perishable Food: Choose foods that don’t need cooking, like canned or jarred foods.
  • Manual Can Opener: Handy for canned food if the power goes out.
  • Disposable Plates and Utensils: Pack enough for three days. 

3. Communication and Tech

Staying informed is vital during a weather emergency.

  • Portable Power Banks: Keep a charged power bank in your emergency kit so you can recharge your phone if the power goes out.
  • Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: A NOAA weather radio helps you stay updated on storms, even if cell service is down.
  • Car Charger: You can charge your phone in your car—just be sure to do this outside, not in a closed garage. 

4. Health and Hygiene

  • First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers and prescription medications.
  • Personal Hygiene: Moist towelettes, hand sanitizer and garbage bags for waste disposal.
  • Prescription Meds: Try to keep at least a three-day supply of daily medications on hand.

5. Special Considerations

Every household is different. Customize your kit based on who lives in your home.

  • Baby Essentials: Diapers, wipes, formula and jarred baby food.
  • Pet Supplies: Canned or dry food, extra water and a leash.
  • Entertainment: Board games, decks of cards, books and puzzles help pass the time.
  • Cash: If power is out widely, credit card machines at open stores may not work.

Creating a Family Action Plan

Having an emergency kit is the first step. Then, talk with your household about what to do if the power goes out so that everyone feels ready.

  • Choose a Safe Room: Pick an inside room away from windows for your family to gather. Make sure everyone knows where your emergency kit is and decides who will grab it.
  • Plan for Medical Devices: If someone uses electric medical devices, have a battery backup or find a nearby hospital in case the power stays off longer than expected.
  • Check on Neighbors: Reach out to elderly or less mobile neighbors who may need help. Share contact info so you can check on each other if there’s an outage. 

After the Power Goes Out

When the outage hits, taking the right steps immediately can protect your home and appliances.

  • Assess the Cause: Look at your breaker box. If a breaker is off, flip it back on. Still no power? Step outside. If streetlights or neighbors are also out, it’s likely a wider outage.
  • Report the Outage: Call your local TDU, using the number on your TXU Energy bill, or use their online outage tracker for updates and estimated restoration.
  • Unplug Electronics: Unplug devices or use power strips to help prevent surges when electricity returns. Leave a lamp plugged in so you’ll know when power is back.
  • Keep Food Safe: Keep fridge and freezer doors closed. Food stays safe in an unopened fridge for about 4 hours. A full freezer keeps items cold for up to 48 hours (24 if half full). Frozen water containers can help maintain cold and provide drinking water as they thaw.
  • Stay Comfortable and Safe 

In summer: Close blinds and curtains to keep out the heat. Stay cool and hydrated.

In winter: Dress in layers, use blankets and never use a gas stove or oven for heat—it’s unsafe. 

Generator Safety for Texas Homes

Portable generators help keep your essentials running when the power’s out, but safe use is key. Here’s how you can protect your home and family:

  • Location matters: Always run your generator outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors and vents. Never use it in a garage, carport, basement or any enclosed spot, even with doors open.
  • Keep it dry: Place the generator on a dry, flat surface. Use a canopy if you need shelter from rain.
  • Refuel with care: Always turn the generator off and let it cool before adding fuel.
  • Plug in safely: Don’t plug the generator into a wall outlet. Plug devices straight into the generator, or use a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician.
  • CO Detectors: Make sure you have working, battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors on each level, especially near bedrooms.

After the Power Returns

Once the lights come back on, there are a few final steps to return your home to normal.

  • Plug in gradually: After the power returns, give it a few minutes before turning on major appliances. This helps your system stabilize and keeps your electronics safe.
  • Check your food: If your fridge was off for more than four hours, check the temperature. Throw out meat, poultry, fish, eggs, or leftovers if they were above 40°F for two hours or more. When in doubt, it’s safer to toss it.
  • Inspect for damage: After a storm, look for damage where power lines meet your home. If you see any problems, call a licensed electrician before the utility restores power.
  • Reset and restock: Reset clocks and smart devices. Restock your emergency kit—replace any used batteries, food or water so you’re ready next time.

Staying Prepared with TXU Energy

TXU Energy doesn't restore power directly, but we're here to help you feel ready when an outage happens in Texas.

For more information on safety and resources, visit our severe weather resources page to stay informed and connected.