Preparedness by resource
Backup Lighting for Power Outages
Reliable lighting keeps a household safer when the power is out. Plan for safe movement, nighttime tasks, bathrooms, stairs, pets, children, and backup charging.
Quick answer
Use battery lanterns, headlamps, flashlights, and rechargeable options. Avoid relying on candles as your main light source.
On this page
Why it matters
Darkness makes normal tasks harder and raises the risk of falls, burns, confusion, and panic. Good lighting should be easy to find and safe to use when everyone is tired or stressed.
- Place lighting where people actually move: bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms, stairs, kitchen, and exits.
- Use hands-free lighting for repairs, first aid, cooking, and caring for children or pets.
- Keep backup charging ready for rechargeable lights.
Lighting options
- Flashlights are useful for focused light and checking spaces.
- Lanterns light a room or table better than a narrow flashlight beam.
- Headlamps keep hands free.
- Motion lights or plug-in emergency lights can help with hallways and stairs.
- Solar lights can recharge outside during daytime and provide low-level light at night.
Battery and charging plan
- Use common battery sizes when possible.
- Store spare batteries near lights, not scattered around the home.
- Rotate rechargeable batteries and test them periodically.
- Keep power banks charged.
- Label lights with battery type so anyone can replace them.
Placement and safety
- Keep a light next to each bed.
- Place lanterns where people gather during outages.
- Use nightlights or glow tape for stairs and exits if helpful.
- Avoid candles as a primary lighting plan because of fire risk.
- Keep lights away from water, heat, and young children when needed.
First steps
- Put one flashlight or headlamp beside each sleeping area.
- Add one lantern for your main gathering space.
- Store spare batteries with the lights.
- Charge power banks and rechargeable lanterns.
- Walk through your home after dark and note where light is needed most.
- Replace candle-first plans with battery lighting when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are candles okay during a power outage?
Candles can provide light, but they add fire risk. Battery lanterns, flashlights, and headlamps are safer primary options.
How many flashlights do I need?
Aim for at least one light per person, plus one or two lanterns for shared spaces.
Are rechargeable lights better than battery lights?
Both are useful. Rechargeable lights are convenient, but disposable or replaceable batteries add redundancy when charging is limited.
Where should I keep emergency lights?
Keep them where people sleep, near exits, in the kitchen, near stairs, and in your main emergency supply area.
Should I use solar lights indoors?
Solar lights can work as backup if they charge outside during the day and are brought inside at night.
What is the safest light for kids?
Small LED lanterns, headlamps, or flashlights are usually safer than candles or open flame.