Sign Up for Energy for Everyone Blog Updates
A utility company in California recently announced a plan to cut power to potentially millions of residents this summer to avoid a repeat of last year’s Camp Fire, the deadliest in state history.
California’s governor is worried for good reason. Power outages can cause financial and emotional hardship, especially for the elderly and others who rely on life-supporting and other medical devices.
In other parts of the country, power outages are a common occurrence, whether caused by intentional blackouts, aging electric infrastructure, or storms.
Propane appliances can keep your family comfortable and safe during these outages. An all-propane home enables you to have hot showers, cooked meals, and heat when the power is out.
For homeowners who already have a propane home, a standby generator adds extra security.
Here’s what else you can do to stay safe during a power outage:
- TURN OFF all the lights and appliances that were operating before the outage occurred (with the exception of at least one light — to help signal when the power returns). This will reduce any type of power surge from occurring once power returns.
- NEVER use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas. This can result in CO poisoning or death. These include outdoor portable heaters, barbecue grills, and portable generators. Only use appliances indoors that are designed and approved for indoor use.
- NEVER store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
- NEVER use a gas oven or range-top burners to provide space heating.
