DELARA
Several days ago Bob, W8ERD
posted an email about losing power
and having a generator that hadn’t
been started in quite some time.
Thankfully, it wasn't off for an
extended period of time and wasn’t
in the dead of winter.
The situation caused me to reflect
upon my situation if I should be in
the same situation. I sent an email
to the Madison County club
reminding them of emergency
preparedness and have been asked
to share the same with DELARA.
As a reminder, I ask everyone to do
a personal assessment of your
power needs and resources in the
event a power outage should
happen. ( Especially with winter
approaching )
A few questions. Do you have
access to a generator? Are you
capable of starting it? Will it power
sensitive electronics such as
medical devices or computers? Will
it generate enough wattage to
satisfy your demand?
Information can be found in
owners manuals or online
concerning power consumption of
refrigeration units, fan and pump
motors etc. Typically, anything with
a heating element uses a lot of
wattage.
Be very cautious when handling
fuel, ensuring there is adequate
ventilation to prevent risk of fire or
explosion. Also insure exhaust is
safely ventilated. Never operate a
generator indoors, including a
garage.
Don’t forget to consider the size of
power cords and inspect them for
safety.
Another reminder is to check your
smoke / CO detectors and fire
extinguishers.
Will N8HDM