There is nothing such as the loss of electricity and use of our everyday modern conveniences, to remind us how dependent we have become to our electronic devices. We rely on power to communicate with our family, friends, and neighbors, to work at home or in our offices, to cook and clean, and for those in the medical profession to keep patients healthy. So, when electricity is not available due to a power outage or storm's passing, we must be resourceful.
Restoring Electrical Power
Once a storm has passed and it is safe to do so, power companies will send out crews to tour impacted areas. Crews will access and make plans for the best ways to begin repairs. Restoration efforts begin with repairs to power plants and substations, then onto water and wastewater plants and treatment centers, hospitals, and police and fire stations. Transmission line repairs and "downstream" power substations are repaired last, as observing this order prevents accidental and unexpected power surges which can result in additional damage.
Restoration Times
Power restoration can take up to 6 months depending on the severity of a storm. Power crews typically prioritize restorations in the order of "power to the greatest number of people possible-as quickly as possible." Because an exact time cannot be certain, local authorities and carriers recommend a healthy supply of batteries, flashlights, and mobile charging devices, in the event power should take longer to restore to your neighborhood.
Generators
For those with medical needs, small children, or who do not mind putting in a little time and effort to be comfortable, both home and portable generators are available.
Home generators are typically installed by a licensed electrician or contractor and require a gas/propane tank to fuel. These generators range in size and price and can power your entire home or parts of your home within minutes of your home losing power. Should you choose to purchase one of these units, professional installation and yearly maintenance is highly recommended and required by most counties.
Portable generators are inexpensive and available for purchase at a variety of home improvement stores and discount clubs before the start of each season. These units do not require professional installation however, they must be used with a great degree of caution, as they can cause harm and even death if not used properly. When using a portable generator consider:
For those with medical needs, small children, or who do not mind putting in a little time and effort to be comfortable, both home and portable generators are available.
Home generators are typically installed by a licensed electrician or contractor and require a gas/propane tank to fuel. These generators range in size and price and can power your entire home or parts of your home within minutes of your home losing power. Should you choose to purchase one of these units, professional installation and yearly maintenance is highly recommended and required by most counties.
Portable generators are inexpensive and available for purchase at a variety of home improvement stores and discount clubs before the start of each season. These units do not require professional installation however, they must be used with a great degree of caution, as they can cause harm and even death if not used properly. When using a portable generator consider:
- Only use a portable generator outside and at least 15 feet away from open doors or windows. This will keep exhaust and fumes from entering your home/business.
- Keep your generator dry and only operate it on a dry surface under an open structure.
- Disconnect all sources of power prior to plugging into your generator. Skipping this step could result in power being sent back into the utility company lines, creating a hazardous situation.
- Ground your generator to prevent shocks and electrocutions.
- Plug equipment directly into the generator - or use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords in good working condition.
- Never plug your generator into a wall outlet. This should only be done by a licensed electrician.
- Turn off your generator when refueling and allow it to cool while maintaining an adequate supply of fuel on hand.
- Inspect and maintain your generator regularly while in use and not in use. If you intend to use your generator each season, you must use it occasionally throughout out the year and provide routine maintenance.
Generator use is not dangerous if you adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations and use caution. As your homeowners carrier, the safety of you and your family is paramount and by bringing these generator tips to your attention we hope to keep your family safe this season. We remind Florida residents to make policy changes now, before the peak of hurricane season to ensure you have the necessary coverages in place before a storm is looming over the horizon. Edison Insurance Company, the clear choice in homeowner's coverage.