GENERATORS: A CRITICAL LIFELINE IN CATASTROPHES

How Generators Can Provide Resilience and Support During California Wildfires and Other Disasters

COLOMBIA, Md., Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As California recovers from a season of devastating wildfires, the importance of reliable, backup energy sources have never been more evident. Generators can serve as a critical solution to power homes and essential services during widespread outages caused by natural disasters.

Wildfires often disrupt power grids, leaving thousands without electricity for extended periods. Generators offer homeowners a resilient backup power solution, ensuring communities have access to electricity for lighting, refrigeration, medical equipment, and communication during crises.

"The ability to generate power independently from the grid can be lifesaving in the aftermath of a disaster," said Daniel Mock, Vice President of Operations at Mister Sparky. "Generators are able to provide a sustainable and immediate power source when it's needed most."

Mister Sparky recommends the following safety tips for using generators during disasters:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Risk: The commonly used portable back-up generators homeowners turn to when the lights go out produce carbon monoxide (CO). Since CO is colorless and odorless it is incredibly dangerous, make sure your home is equipped with battery operated smoke and CO alarms – better yet, find a generator with built-in CO sensors.
• Proper Location: Generators should always be used outdoors—not in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces—as the fumes will be too powerful for fans or open windows to provide proper ventilation. When using it outdoors, make sure your generator is not near doors or windows.
• Regular Maintenance: Like any household appliance, a generator needs proper maintenance to stay in the best, safest condition. You don't want to be in an emergency only to find out there's an issue with your generator, so changing the oil and conducting routine maintenance will keep you safe and prepared.
• Have Enough Fuel: Choice of fuel should be determined by the fuels available in your area. Propane generators are a great option because the fuel can be stored in large tanks without degrading over time and bulk deliveries can be made in most cases.
• Generator Size Matters: Compare the total wattage of the equipment to the total wattage output rating of the generator and do not exceed it. It is crucial that you have enough power to run essential appliances.

In addition to considering l generator investment, Mister Sparky also understands that in times of uncertainty, it is necessary to be vigilant and take precautions to guard your family and your home. When it comes to your electrical, it is critical to remember the following important tips:

• Make sure you have smoke detectors on every floor of your house, especially outside of bedrooms, and check that both your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are up to date and properly working.
• Invest in a portable or standby generator.
• Create a fire-resistant zone that is free of leaves, debris, or flammable materials at least 30 feet from your home.
• When you know inclement weather is on the way, turn off or unplug any tools/appliances that aren't being used.
• Invest in smart home technology to help monitor your electrical safety and appliances from anywhere.
• Practice a fire escape plan at least twice a year with your family and know your community's evacuation route.
• Watch the news – be sure to track severe weather or wildfire and air quality warnings. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

For more information about how generators can safeguard your home, please visit www.mistersparky.com.

About Mister Sparky

Mister Sparky is one of the nation's largest consumer electrical franchises, offering premium residential services in more than 150 cities. Experts at safeguarding homes against potential hazards, the company's licensed electricians are highly trained and provide customers with installation, repair and replacement services in a fast and reliable manner. America's On-Time Electrician® is part of Authority Brands, the parent company to leading home service brands across the plumbing, HVAC, electrical services, residential cleaning, at-home care, swimming pool repair and maintenance, tree care, restoration, pet waste removal, and pest control services sectors. For more information, visit www.mistersparky.com and www.authoritybrands.com.  

About Authority Brands

Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Authority Brands' companies include 15 leading home service franchise brands: America's Swimming Pool Company, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, The Cleaning Authority, DoodyCalls, DRYmedic Restoration Services, Homewatch CareGivers, The Junkluggers, Lawn Squad, Mister Sparky, Monster Tree Service, Mosquito Squad, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Screenmobile, STOP Restoration, and Woofie's. Together, these brands provide home services through more than 2,000 territories operated by more than 1,000 franchise owners. Authority Brands is dedicated to supporting individual franchise owner growth by providing strong marketing, technology, and operational support. See www.authoritybrands.com for more information.

Contact:

Taylor Stapleton

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(754) 888‑6304

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SOURCE Mister Sparky