A blackout can happen fast. If you’re ready, it’s just a drill—no panic. This is how you turn a power outage into a smooth ten-minute test for your family. Step 1 — Pick a time to practice. Choose a weekday evening when everyone’s home and not distracted. This keeps the drill realistic. Set the kitchen timer for ten minutes and place it where everyone can see it—like the kitchen counter. This ensures the whole family knows when to start and stop without confusion. Step 2 — Turn off all lights and electronics at once. This mimics a real blackout. The goal is to see how quickly everyone reacts. Assign one person to record the time it takes for everyone to respond—this helps track progress over time. Step 3 — Gather in one spot with flashlights and a charged phone. Pick a central location, like the living room, where everyone can easily find each other. Bring flashlights and phones already charged to a designated spot, such as a side table. This ensures no one wanders in the dark and everyone stays connected for updates or emergencies. Step 4 — Check for hazards and secure loose items. Look for tripping hazards like cords, toys, or clutter. Move them to a safe place, such as a hallway or under a table. This prevents injuries and keeps the drill safe. Have one person walk through the house to confirm no one is left in a dangerous situation. Step 5 — Review what worked and what didn’t. After ten minutes, gather to discuss what went well and what needs improvement. Note who found the flashlights fastest or who missed something. Use a notebook or phone notes app to record observations—this helps refine the plan for next time. Start by setting the kitchen timer and announcing the drill clearly.