You may be able to light the flame yourself to use your gas stovetop without power. Before you attempt to do this by hand, make sure you read instructions on how to do so safely. Some newer models of gas stoves have a safety feature that will prevent you from starting the pilot light by hand. Look at the owners’ manual for your gas stovetop to find more information.

While older stoves may be usable during a power outage, most new models will not be. Before trying to cook with your gas stove, check your range’s manual to see whether it includes an interlock. The interlock is a feature that prevents any gas from entering the appliance unless there is electricity. It is a safety device that was once common only to commercial ranges but now is common in residential ones. If your oven has an interlock, check out the other ways to cook during a power outage below.