A power cut can remove lights, fans, Wi-Fi, favourite activities and communication-device charging without warning. For an autistic or ADHD child, that sudden change may feel frightening or physically uncomfortable. A small, rehearsed plan can make the event more predictable while keeping safety first.
Build a child-specific outage kit
Keep battery lanterns or flashlights where adults can reach them quickly. Add charged power banks and the correct cables for phones, AAC devices or other essential equipment. Include ear defenders, a familiar comfort item, water, shelf-stable accepted foods and a low-tech communication board. If the child relies on powered medical equipment, make a backup-power plan with the equipment supplier and clinician before an outage.
Ready.gov and CDC recommend safe backup lighting and charging options. Use flashlights rather than candles. Never use a generator, charcoal grill or camp stove indoors or near doors and windows because carbon monoxide can kill without warning. Maintain working battery-backed smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms.
Rehearse the first five minutes
Create a short picture sequence: lights off, adult gets lantern, devices connect to power bank, family moves to the safe room, then waits for an update. Practise briefly in daylight by switching off one lamp—not the whole home—and stop if distress rises. Let the child choose a job such as holding the visual card or bringing the comfort bag.
Explain what will stay the same: who is present, where the family will sit and how the child can communicate. Keep language concrete: “The electricity stopped. We are safe. The lantern is on.” Avoid promising exactly when power will return.
Protect regulation and communication
Heat, darkness and unexpected noise can quickly increase distress. Move to the coolest safe room, reduce demands and offer familiar quiet activities that do not require electricity. Keep fridge and freezer doors closed. Check official alerts through a charged phone or battery radio, and have a written contact plan if mobile service fails.
Share the routine with school, relatives and respite carers. Our emergency go-bag guide can help organise portable supplies. After each outage, replace used items, recharge devices and note what helped the child feel secure.
Sources: Ready.gov emergency-preparedness guidance; CDC guidance on backup power sources; CDC guidance for keeping children safe away from home.
This is general information shared for parent awareness, not medical advice. Every child is different — please confirm decisions with your child’s doctor or a suitably qualified professional.