Article Brought to us by Oregon Generators website
Power specialist shows parents safer ways to handle outages
Key Points:
– Power expert highlights seven dangerous mistakes parents make during blackouts that can put children at significant risk
– Expert reveals safer alternatives to dangerous practices like using candles, improper generator placement, and neglecting carbon monoxide detectors
– Power specialist stresses the importance of preparing emergency kits and communication plans before outages occur
During power outages, many families find themselves in unfamiliar territory, trying to navigate daily activities without electricity. This unfamiliarity can lead to dangerous decisions, especially when children are involved.
“Parents often make well-intentioned but potentially harmful choices during blackouts,” says Corey Gilgan, Owner of Oregon Generators, a company specializing in residential and commercial generators.
While keeping children safe is every parent’s priority, Gilgan points out that certain common behaviors during power outages can actually increase dangers. Below, he outlines seven dangerous mistakes to avoid and offers safer alternatives.
1. Using Candles for Light
“Candles may create a cozy atmosphere, but they pose significant fire hazards, especially with curious children around,” Gilgan explains. “Children can accidentally knock them over or touch the flame.”
Instead, stock up on battery-powered flashlights and lanterns. Modern LED options provide hours of bright light without any fire risk. Keep these in easily accessible locations, and teach children how to use them properly. Headlamps are particularly useful for children as they keep hands free and can’t be easily dropped.
2. Improper Generator Placement
“Families often use portable generators during outages, but placing them incorrectly can be deadly,” says Gilgan. “I’ve seen people put generators in garages, basements, or too close to windows because they’re worried about theft or weather damage.”
According to Gilgan, the safe alternative is always to place generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from any doors, windows, or vents. Create a designated, sheltered area for your generator that’s well away from the house but protected from the elements. Explain to children that generators are off-limits and why they need to stay far away from them.
3. Neglecting Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent danger during power outages, especially when families use alternative heating methods or generators.
“Homes might lack sufficient carbon monoxide detectors or have detectors with dead batteries,” Gilgan notes. “This oversight can be life-threatening, particularly for children, who are more vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning than adults.”
Invest in battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors for every floor of your home, and check the batteries monthly. During a blackout, pay special attention to these devices, as this is when the risk of carbon monoxide exposure increases dramatically.
4. Allowing Children to Use Heating Equipment
“Space heaters, kerosene heaters, and other temporary heating devices can cause burns or fires if children operate them unsupervised,” warns Gilgan.
Instead, establish clear rules about heating equipment. Only adults should operate these devices, which should never be left unattended when children are present. Consider child safety gates to keep young ones away from temporary heating sources. For bedtime warmth, opt for extra blankets rather than running heating equipment while children sleep.
5. Ignoring Food Safety
During extended outages, refrigerated food can quickly become unsafe, but many parents don’t realize how quickly food spoils without refrigeration.
“Food poisoning can affect children more severely than adults,” Gilgan points out. “Yet a lot of parents try to save food that should be discarded, putting their children at risk.”
Keep a food thermometer in your emergency kit to check refrigerator temperatures. Remember that perishable foods become unsafe after four hours at temperatures above 40°F. Prepare a supply of non-perishable, child-friendly foods that don’t require cooking, such as peanut butter, crackers, and canned fruits.
6. Overlooking Water Safety
“When power outages affect water treatment facilities, tap water can become unsafe,” explains Gilgan. “Children may drink contaminated water without realizing the danger.”
Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. Teach older children about water safety during emergencies and why they shouldn’t drink tap water without checking with an adult first. Keep water purification tablets or a filter in your emergency supplies as a backup.
7. Failing to Address Children’s Emotional Needs
Power outages can be frightening for children, yet parents often underestimate the emotional impact.
“Fear and anxiety during blackouts can lead children to make unsafe choices or hide in dangerous places,” Gilgan says. “Psychological preparation is just as important as physical preparation.”
Make power outages less scary by discussing them before they happen. Create a positive atmosphere with special games and activities reserved for blackouts. Maintain routines as much as possible to provide a sense of normalcy, and acknowledge and address any fears your children express.
Corey Gilgan, Owner of Oregon Generators, commented:
“Many of the dangers children face during blackouts are completely preventable with proper planning. Every family should have an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, water, medications, first-aid supplies, and multiple light sources. Equally important is establishing clear communication plans—teach children how to reach emergency services and family members if phones aren’t working.
“Childproofing your home for blackout scenarios is different from everyday safety measures. Take time to consider what additional hazards might emerge when the power goes out, like stairways that become especially dangerous in the dark or heating equipment that’s normally not in use. With thoughtful preparation, families can navigate power outages safely and even turn them into positive bonding experiences rather than frightening ordeals.”
About Oregon Generators
Oregon Generators offers services in the installation, maintenance, and repair of residential and commercial generators. They specialize in generator installation, EV charging setups, and electrical panel upgrades. The company is renowned for using Generac and Kohler generators, ensuring reliable power during outages. Their team is certified and highly trained to provide effective solutions. Oregon Generators also serves the greater Portland area and is recognized for its exceptional customer service and commitment to quality wo
Article Brought to us by Oregon Generators website
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