Hurricane Preparation: Home Standby Generators

If you're a Florida resident, you must be aware that the months of summer and early fall are hurricane seasons. These storms can have winds over 155 miles an hour and can cause storm surges that cause flooding to properties in coastal regions. Storms can cause devastating damage to anything that is in their course.

If a hurricane were to strike your area tomorrow, do you think you're prepared? If you're unsure, check this checklist to determine whether you're ready for a storm.

• Create an emergency kit of supplies
• Make a family-wide communication plan
• Learn about hurricane evacuation routes in your local area.
• Know how high you've raised your home and if it's susceptible to flooding during hurricanes.
• Maintain your trees and shrubs well-trimmed to increase their wind resistance.
• Put storm shutters in place on every window
• Attach straps to secure your roof to the frame
• Install an emergency generator that can be used
  
  

How a Standby Generator Helps Homeowners Prepare for a Hurricane

If you're not within an evacuation zone in an extreme storm, you could opt to remain at your home. If power is cut off, you could be left without power. With a standby generator, you're well-prepared to face the storm.

What Do Generators Power?

You might not be aware of the magnitude of your dependence on electricity until your power goes off. Then it will occur to you that many household appliances need electricity to operate. Essential items to be powered during a storm are:

• Lights
• Systems for heating and air conditioning
• Kitchen appliances
• Sump pumps
• Water heaters
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Security systems for homes
• Computers and TVs
  
  

Benefits of Installing a Standby Generator

It's possible to be hesitant about purchasing an emergency generator, thinking maybe you don't need one. If a catastrophic storm strikes and knocks out electricity for a period of hours, days, perhaps even weeks, you'll discover the importance of electricity to your daily routine. The advantages of having a backup generator include:

• You can enjoy plenty of lighting at night
• Keep your indoor temperature at a comfortable level
• Make a delicious dinner for your family
• Make sure your basement isn't flooded by ensuring that the sump pump is running
• Get a hot shower
• Refrigerated food items and frozen foods from getting spoiled
• Stay safe in your home security system
• Keep track of time on computer games and television