Summer storm season is nearly here, so having the right outdoor power equipment on hand is important to help you when weathering a storm or power outage. It’s advisable that homeowners plan before foul weather, or a power outage disrupts life. Our friends at OPEI provide the following tips to help you survive Mother Nature.
To get ready for inclement weather, homeowners should identify which equipment is needed. Chainsaws or pole saws can trim limbs and shrubs ahead of a storm and handle clearing. String trimmers, pruners and chainsaws can also remove combustible material from around your home, making it less vulnerable to wildfires.
A portable generator will power key appliances and charge cell phones when utilities go down. Before an outage, plan where the generator will be set up (never in a home or garage, and always away from your home and any air intake) and determine how to secure it if needed. Buy and install a carbon monoxide detector, too. Get outdoor-rated extension cords for portable generators and consider adding an approved cover to your generator for rainy weather. A whole house generator can keep the lights and appliances on and running.
Water pumps can help get water and muck out of basements and homes. Be sure you know how to operate the pump. Never pump substances that your equipment is not designed to cope with. Pay attention to avoid overheating and follow all safety precautions.
A utility type vehicle can transport people and supplies quickly in an emergency. Keep the vehicle stable and drive slowly. Do not turn mid-slope or while on a hill. Consider taking a safety course.
Always read the directions provided by outdoor power equipment manufacturers and be sure to follow all manufacturer’s safety and usage recommendations before you need it—not waiting until an emergency. Practice how to operate equipment. Save a digital copy of the owner’s manual on your computer if possible, so it can easily be consulted in the future.
Make sure to have the right fuel on hand and charge batteries ahead of an outage. Gasoline-powered equipment uses E10 or less fuel and most manufacturers recommend adding a fuel stabilizer. Fuel that is more than 30 days old may phase separate and cause running problems, so it’s important to purchase fuel just ahead of a storm. Store fuel safely and only use an approved fuel container.
One of the most important things operators can do for safety is to pay attention to energy levels and health. Preparation for bad weather, a power outage and storm cleanup can be taxing on the body and the spirit. Do not operate power equipment when tired or overly fatigued. Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks. Always use safety equipment like chaps, gloves, eye protection or hearing protection.
If you follow these weathering a storm tips, you will make a bad situation as tolerable as possible.