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Winter storms and gusty winds associated with these monster systems can trigger power outages. Electrical equipment can be damaged and entire neighborhoods may be left without power for several weeks, but how can you stay safe and keep your home warm at the same time?

Alternative heat sources can be used to keep warm during this time and portable generators can provide for essential power needs within your home. However, it is important to know the risks involved with improper usage, and how to practice portable generator safety.

Once the power goes out after a winter storm, families need a way of staying warm and keeping the cold air out. A gas fireplace or stove can be lit using a candle or a lighter, as it does not need electricity to start the flame. This can create a fire risk within your house, so it is essential to monitor the fire and not let children or pets play unsupervised around the flame.

Families can also invest in and use a reliable non-electric heater, such as kerosene, propane, and natural gas. Kerosene heaters are generally more fuel efficient than propane heaters and provide a greater amount of heat output, while also being less flammable. However, propane is usually easier to find and has an indefinite shelf life. Both heaters have their own list of pros and cons, so it is important to do the research and consider the options available to you.

Unvented gas, propane, and kerosene heaters all have the potential to create high levels of carbon monoxide in a confined space, so it is a smart idea to keep a carbon monoxide detector in the same room, and make sure your heater is correctly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Newer models of heaters have a safety feature that shuts off the appliance when oxygen levels fall beneath a certain threshold. Nonetheless, they can ignite nearby flammable materials and trigger a fire very quickly.

Portable generators, while an ingenious innovation, can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning if not used correctly. When the power goes out, make sure to have your generator positioned outside your home, at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and garages. Portable generators should never be placed indoors or in a garage, even if the windows are opened, as the carbon monoxide fumes can still accumulate to unhealthy or even fatal levels. Investing in battery-operated carbon dioxide detectors for all rooms in your home is a wise decision that could help save your life.

Power outages after a storm can be a major headache, but with the right equipment and preparation, your family and furry friends can stay safe and warm inside. Once you know your family is safe, be sure to check on your neighbors and community if possible.

Sources: NWS, CDC
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Story Image: Snowy scene via Pixabay

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After the Winter Storm: Staying Warm When Power Goes Out