Weather Emergencies
Extreme heat combined with a power outage: what to do?
Extreme heat combined with a power outage: the right reflexes in a few simple steps.
Written by Mohamed IDBRAHIM · Updated octobre 13, 2026 · 7 min read
Immediate actions
- 1 Find mapped cooling centers in your city.
- 2 Keep fridge and freezer doors closed — food lasts 4 hours chilled.
- 3 Use battery fans and damp cloths on the neck.
- 4 Check on elderly neighbors twice a day.
What not to do / warning
Cities open cooling centers automatically during heat emergencies.
When a extreme heat combined with a power outage happens, the first minutes matter. Follow these steps to act safely and without panic.
What to do right now
- Find mapped cooling centers in your city.
- Keep fridge and freezer doors closed — food lasts 4 hours chilled.
- Use battery fans and damp cloths on the neck.
- Check on elderly neighbors twice a day.
Mistakes to avoid
- Acting before removing the immediate source of danger.
- Panicking or skipping the official procedures.
- Following unverified advice from random websites.
How to prevent this in the future
Regular checks, keeping emergency numbers visible and preparing an essentials kit go a long way. Save this guide for offline access.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first?
Ensure everyone is safe, remove the source of danger, then call the relevant number or begin the official procedure.
When should I call emergency services?
Whenever life, serious injury or fire is involved. When in doubt, call — dispatchers would rather check than miss an emergency.
Sources & references
- CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/extreme-heat/)