Power Outages and Your Farm

A power failure can cause problems on farms, but being prepared can minimize the seriousness of these problems.

Use this checklist to make plans for your farm before, during, and after a power outage situation.

Related Websites

Emergency Preparedness And Response: Power Outages
Website with resources on steps to take before, during and after a power outage, including worker safety.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What You Need To Know When The Power Goes Out Unexpectedly
Very good resource for safety concerns during a power outage, including food safety, drinking water, extreme heat and cold, and carbon monoxide.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Preparedness Resources

Preparing for Power Outages

Standby Electric Generators: A Source of Emergency Power for Farmers
Factsheet discussing the types, operation and maintenance of electric generators for emergency situations.
University of Wisconsin Extension

Winter Power Failure on the Farm: Keeping Animals and Equipment Safe
Factsheet describing precuations to take to protect poultry and livestock during a power failure in the winter.
University of Wisconsin Extension

Safety Issues During Power Outages

Electrical Safety and Generators: Preventing Electrocutions Associated with Portable Generators
Factsheet discussing safety issues when using portable generators and preventive measures take.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Health Issues During Power Outages

Keep Your Food Safe During Emergencies: Power Outages, Floods, Fires
Safety guidelines when handling food during an extended power outage, flood, or after a fire.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS)

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning After an Emergency
Factsheet discussing the risks, potential sources and prevention of carbon monoxide poisoning after an emergency situation.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)