How to Prepare for Winter Power Outages

Written By Mountains West Ranches

Winter in Utah can bring heavy snow, strong winds, and sudden temperature drops that put extra stress on power grids. For anyone living on or visiting rural property, a power outage during a cold snap can quickly turn from inconvenient to dangerous. Preparing ahead of time ensures you can stay warm, keep your essentials running, and protect your home or cabin when the lights go out. With a few smart steps, you can turn a potentially stressful situation into something manageable and safe.

1. Build a Reliable Emergency Power Kit

The first step in preparing for winter outages is making sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit. In rural areas, power restoration can take longer than in the city, so it’s wise to plan for at least several days without electricity. Think beyond just flashlights. A well-organized power kit can make a big difference in keeping your household safe and comfortable until service returns.

Essential items to include:

  • A reliable flashlight or lantern for each person

  • Extra batteries and portable power banks

  • Candles, matches, and lighters stored safely

  • A battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates

  • A first aid kit, basic medications, and extra blankets

  • Manual can opener and shelf-stable food supplies

By keeping your power kit stored in one accessible location, you avoid scrambling in the dark when an outage happens. It’s also smart to check your supplies at the start of every winter to make sure nothing has expired or been misplaced.

2. Keep Your Heat Source Ready

Losing power often means losing heat. If your main heating system relies on electricity, you’ll want a reliable backup option. A cold cabin or home can become uncomfortable quickly, and in extreme weather, it can be unsafe. Even a small alternative heat source can keep your space livable during an outage.

Practical backup heating options include:

  • A wood stove or pellet stove, if properly installed and vented

  • Portable propane heaters rated for indoor use

  • An extra supply of firewood, pellets, or propane tanks

  • Heavy blankets, sleeping bags, and layered clothing to retain body heat

It’s also smart to insulate your windows and doors before winter hits. This helps trap heat longer if the power goes out, giving you more time to stay warm without burning through all your fuel at once.

3. Protect Your Water Supply

When the power goes out, your water access can be disrupted, especially if you rely on a well pump. Winter outages also increase the risk of pipes freezing, which can lead to expensive damage. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping water available and preventing plumbing issues.

Helpful steps to take include:

  • Filling containers or jugs with clean water in advance

  • Storing extra bottled water for drinking and cooking

  • Insulating exposed pipes and keeping cabinets open to let warm air circulate

  • Shutting off the main water supply if temperatures drop and pipes are at risk

  • Keeping a bucket of water or snow-melting backup for flushing toilets

If you have a private well, consider investing in a small generator to power your pump during longer outages. Having even a limited supply of running water can make things far more manageable.

4. Protect Your Food and Appliances

When the power goes out, keeping food safe is another major concern. A refrigerator can typically hold a safe temperature for several hours if kept closed, but it won’t last forever. If your property is rural, access to grocery stores might be delayed by snow, so proper food storage is key.

Smart ways to protect your food supply:

  • Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible

  • Use a cooler with ice packs for perishable items

  • Store dry goods, canned food, and snacks in a cool, dry place

  • Unplug sensitive electronics and appliances to avoid damage from power surges when electricity returns

During Utah winters, you can even use the natural cold to your advantage by keeping well-sealed containers outside if temperatures are low enough. Just make sure they’re secure from wildlife.

5. Consider a Backup Generator

A generator is one of the most useful investments you can make for rural living, especially in areas prone to winter storms. While not essential for everyone, it can give you the ability to run basic systems like a heater, lights, and well pump during an extended outage. It also provides peace of mind during severe weather.

When using a generator:

  • Choose a unit large enough to power your most essential items

  • Store extra fuel safely and in approved containers

  • Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces

  • Test it before winter so you know it works when you need it

Even a small generator can make the difference between a stressful outage and a comfortable one.

6. Prepare Your Property in Advance

Winter power outages are easier to handle when your property is already set up to handle them. This includes not only stocking supplies but also taking preventative measures to reduce damage and make it easier to stay warm and secure.

Good winter prep steps include:

  • Insulating windows and doors to retain heat

  • Keeping pathways and driveways clear for emergency access

  • Securing outdoor equipment that could freeze or be damaged

  • Storing extra firewood or propane in a dry, safe place

  • Keeping your phone charged or having a solar charger ready

These simple measures can help keep you safer and more comfortable during unexpected outages, especially in remote areas.

Stay Safe and Warm All Winter

Winter power outages can be unpredictable, but preparation makes a world of difference. By building a solid emergency kit, maintaining a backup heat source, protecting your water supply, and prepping your property, you can handle power loss with confidence. Rural living comes with unique challenges, but with a little planning, it also offers a level of self-reliance that can turn a difficult situation into something you can manage calmly and effectively.

Quick Tips Recap

  • Build a well-stocked emergency power kit

  • Keep a safe backup heat source ready

  • Protect your water supply and pipes

  • Safeguard food and appliances

  • Consider investing in a generator

  • Prep your property ahead of winter storms

Mountains West Ranches
Next

How to Start a Small Pasture or Grow Fodder Crops