Are you prepared for the winter storm Season?  Many forecasters are warning this could be a very harsh winter season that could create a significant strain on our power grid.

The winter weather forecast is expected to be colder and wetter than average.  Accuweather has predicted a colder and more storm active winter due to the return of an El Niño weather pattern.  The El Niño weather pattern will have a significant influence across the Country.

preparednessIf you haven’t done so already, it is important that you get prepared for the potentially difficult weather ahead.  With prolonged electricity outages expected, it is vital to have a plan in place to protect your family and pets from the bitter cold.  Have emergency supplies ready and accessible.

Three Days Of Supplies

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says families should have a response plan and an emergency preparedness kit. The Red Cross says a kit should include enough supplies for each family member for three days and it should be checked every six months. Emergency preparedness kits should include water, food, first aid and medical supplies, clothing, blankets, tools, sanitation items and important documents.

Power outages are a real threat during severe storms, so backup power is also an important element of an emergency preparedness kit. Gas generators are a common choice, but they have some drawbacks.  First, they need fuel, which can often be in short supply during emergency situations. They are also noisy and produce dangerous fumes, so they can’t be used indoors.

Backup Power Is Important for Preparedness

Another option for backup power without these drawbacks is a high-powered battery pack that can provide portable electricity in an emergency. These are available at major retailers and one popular brand is XPower by Xantrex. XPower offers products that range in power levels depending on your needs. XPower products can also jump-start vehicles, inflate tires and include flashlights or built-in radios. These products are clean, efficient, quiet and fumeless, so they are perfect for use inside the home, where generators are not safe.

Having power during an emergency enables people to contact emergency services, keep in touch with family, and stay informed through news and weather updates. Backup power can also provide light, heat or air-conditioning, keep food and medicine refrigerated, and can even power a sump pump to help keep the house dry.

With the high potential for power outages during ice and snow storms in the U.S. this year, it’s time to be prepared.   Carefully check your food and water storage, blankets, and medical supplies.  Get a plan ready for backup power – before it is too late.  Remember, when power goes out everyone will rush to the store to get a generator.  Get your plan in place early so you can avoid the difficulties.

Power outages are a real threat during severe storms, so backup power is an important element of an emergency preparedness kit.