Power outages or blackouts can happen for a number of reasons; thunderstorms, fire, tornados, earthquake, hurricane, high-energy consumption, accidents, overused power grids and human error. Power outages are especially dangerous during times of extreme temperatures and when the health of you or a family member is in jeopardy due to the need for uninterrupted electricity to power a medical device or keep medicine cold. It can also cost you money in damaged electronics and ruined food. The bottom line is that the safety and comfort of your family is at risk during a power outage.

According to the National Severe Storm Laboratory, lightning is the most dangerous and frequently-encountered weather hazard that most people experience each year.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, during a typical year, home electrical problems account for 67,800 fires, 2,305 injuries, 485 deaths, and $868 million in property losses.  They also report that most electrical wiring fires start in the bedroom.  Stoves, ovens, dryers, central heating units, televisions, and radios are the most common culprits in electrical fires.  There are some basic tips that homeowners can do to improve the electrical safety of their homes.