Arizona Outage Planning: Avoid Creating a Second Emergency

Backup power planning starts with the loads your household needs and the way equipment will be used safely. Think ahead about refrigeration, communication and other priorities before choosing a system.

For portable fuel-powered generators, CPSC advises outdoor operation at least 20 feet from homes, with exhaust facing away. Never operate one inside a home or garage, even with doors open. Install carbon monoxide alarms with battery backup on every level and outside sleeping areas. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get outside and call 911.

Compare your backup options before an outage. Ask a qualified installer which circuits will operate, how long backup can last, and how the system connects safely to your home. Review the manufacturer’s operating and maintenance instructions.

Use Backup Options to compare approaches, then request a home-specific review through Contact. Bring your utility bill, existing solar details and a list of the loads you want to protect.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Carbon Monoxide Information Center

https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Carbon-Monoxide-Information-Center