Power outages can happen unexpectedly and last for an extended period, especially in areas prone to severe weather or heavy electrical demand. Knowing how to stay safe during these times is crucial. This guide will provide essential tips to ensure safety and comfort while the power is out and how Washington Generators can help.
Prepare Your Home in Advance
Preparing your home before an outage occurs is key to navigating the event smoothly. Ensure you have a well-stocked emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and enough water and non-perishable food to last several days. Investing in surge protectors to safeguard your electronics from potential surges when power returns is also wise.
Use Generators Safely: Portable vs. Standby
A standby generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage, providing automatic backup power for your home. Since standby generators are permanently installed and professionally wired into your electrical system, they are generally safer than portable generators. However, it’s still crucial to ensure proper installation by experts like those at Washington Generators to avoid risks like carbon monoxide exposure.
Safety is key when using portable generators. Always operate them in a well-ventilated area, far away from windows, doors, and vents. Never use a portable generator inside your home, garage, or enclosed space. Follow all manufacturer guidelines to keep your family safe during an outage.
Stay Informed and Connected
Staying informed about the situation during a power outage is crucial. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to listen to local station updates about the outage and weather conditions. Use your mobile phone sparingly to conserve battery life or have backup power sources charged and ready.
Protect Your Appliances and Prepare for Power Return
If you’re using a portable generator, turning off and unplugging major appliances and electronics is important to prevent damage from a potential power surge when the electricity is restored. Leave one light on so you’ll know when the power is back. Once the power returns, wait a few minutes before turning appliances back on to help stabilize the grid.
Many systems, like those installed by Washington Generators, include a whole-home surge protector for homes with a standby generator. This helps safeguard appliances and electronics from power surges automatically, giving you peace of mind during an outage and when the power returns.
Contact Washington Generators for Backup Power Solutions
Don’t get caught unprepared during a power outage. Contact Washington Generators to explore your options for reliable backup power solutions, such as installing a home standby generator. Our team is ready to ensure you have the power you need whenever you need it.