(NAPSI)—The hurricane season in the United States runs from June 1 through November 30, though the storms have been known to occur at other times. For 2018, experts at Colorado State University believe, the country can expect an above-average storm season, with 14 named storms and seven hurricanes, three of them major. Regardless of whether these weather predictions come true, it’s always a good idea for home and business owners to take the necessary steps ahead of the storm warnings and the inevitable rush for emergency supplies.
What To Do
Home and business owners can take a simple but proactive course of action. For example, preparations should start earlier than the issued hurricane warnings.
1. Getting a generator can be a good idea. They keep critical appliances running. Lights stay on, devices stay charged and weather updates are available on television, radio or online. Most tropical storms cause a disruption in electricity. Depending on the storm’s intensity, damage to the electrical infrastructure can be extensive. Downed power lines, flooding, fallen structures, debris and other obstacles will affect the speed of power restoration, so it’s important to prepare for an outage duration that may become uncomfortable.
A portable generator should be exercised every month. Schedule maintenance if needed. When you get a portable generator, use a sizing calculator to gauge your needs. Additionally, homeowners who seek a greater peace of mind from an automatic home standby generator should schedule an in-home assessment, as automatic home standby units take time to get installed.
“It’s better to be ready for a non-event than it is to be caught off guard by a strong storm,” explained Russ Minick, chief marketing officer at Generac Power Systems. “We believe we can offer manageable ways to guide homeowners and businesses through the storm season, but staying safe starts with preparedness.”
2. An emergency hurricane kit for the family and any pets should be easily accessible within the home. In addition to food and bottled water, the kit should include a flashlight, first aid kit, battery-powered radio, a whistle to signal for help, and an assortment of hand tools. If someone in the home is dependent on electricity for life-sustaining medical equipment, review the family plan to access backup power or make arrangements to relocate when storm warnings are issued.
3. Outages and the need for fuel go hand in hand. During a power outage, you still might need to be out and about—maybe even evacuate the area—so ensuring that your car is fueled is important. In a worst-case scenario, your car can serve as a source of light, heat, and electricity. A portable generator is far better suited to provide backup power, though, so make sure it has clean fuel, as well. And make sure any fuel you store is kept in approved containers.
Learn More
For a more detailed list of power outage safety tips for homeowners and businesses, go to www.Generac.com/hurricane-prep.
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