We’ve received credible inside info from someone working within Camden County that authorities are planning for power outages tonight, Monday January 26.
That doesn’t mean outages are guaranteed; it does mean the people responsible for keeping things running are getting ready. When that happens, it’s a good cue for residents to do a little light prep of their own so an outage, if it happens, stays inconvenient and not chaotic. Here’s what to do before the power goes out, not during it.
Charge Devices Ahead of Time
Phones, tablets, laptops, portable chargers. If you’d be annoyed without it, charge it now. Even partial charges help if an outage is short.
Check Flashlights and Batteries
Test them. Replace batteries if needed. Discovering a dead flashlight in the dark is an avoidable life lesson.
If you've run out of batteries and you want to avoid driving to the store (don't make unnecessary trips right now!), don't despair; reach out to neighbors and ask if they have any to spare. Equally if you've got a stash of batteries ask around if anyone needs some. Remember: it takes a village.
Prepare in Case Heat Is Interrupted
If your heating system relies on electricity, an outage could temporarily shut it down.
- Lay out warm clothes and extra blankets ready to go
- Close off unused rooms
- Plan for the family to spend the evening in just one room of the house (i.e. the living room) to conserve heat. Bring all your cookies and chocolates and everything you need into that room and get cozy.
Do not use a propane heater inside the home unless it is one specifically designed for indoor use; carbon monoxide can build up and create a deadly hazard.
Be Smart With the Fridge and Freezer
Because it’s very cold outside, brief fridge use isn’t a big issue tonight. Just don’t stand there contemplating condiments with the door wide open. Avoid using the freezer at all to save your food spoiling.
Consider lowering the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer now, to keep produce stay cooler for longer if the power does go out. You might want to transfer meat and milk to the freezer, too.
Protect Electronics From Power Surges
Unplug TVs, computers, and other electronics. Surges often happen when power is restored, and unplugging is the simplest protection, but leave one light on so you know immediately when power is restored.
Have a Low-Tech Backup Plan
Download shows, playlists, or eBooks ahead of time. And bring out all your non-tech things too: physical books, playing cards, board games. Know where your candles or lanterns are and use them safely.
Report the Outage
If your power does go out, reporting it helps utility crews identify affected areas faster and prioritize repairs. Even if you assume they already know, individual reports still matter, especially for localized outages. Here’s what to do:
- Use the utility’s online outage map or mobile app if available, since these are often faster than calling.
- Limit repeat reports or calls unless conditions worsen. Once reported, it’s best to limit repeat calls unless conditions change. Crews are typically dispatched based on outage clusters and safety concerns, and restoration updates are usually posted online as they become available.
If you see downed power lines, stay far away and report them immediately. Never assume a line isn’t live, and don’t try to handle or move anything yourself.
Bottom Line
Preparing for a possible power outage isn’t about expecting the worstl it’s about giving yourself options. When your devices are charged, your home is set up to stay warm, and you know where the basics are, a temporary outage becomes a mild inconvenience instead of a stressful disruption.
For South Jersey residents, this kind of preparation is just part of living in a region that experiences real seasons and real infrastructure demands. Short outages happen from time to time, especially during colder weather, and they’re usually resolved quickly. Being ready simply means you won’t be scrambling if the lights go out for a bit.
If nothing happens tonight, great. You’ll still be better prepared the next time it does. And if something does, you’ll already be one step ahead.
