Get Through a Natural Disaster with Solar Energy

 

Often times, we know beforehand when a natural disaster is coming. We usually have time to prepare by stocking up on food and water and making sure our homes are as safe as possible. Bracing ourselves for natural disasters is important, but it’s just as important to make sure we’re prepared when the storm passes as well.

After a storm, it’s likely that power in surrounding area will be down, and usually for a while. The problem is, you still need to cook, clean, see at night… in other words, you still need to live. One way to make life easier is to fit your home with solar energy products, ones that can help you and your family after a natural disaster occurs.

The most important pieces of emergency equipment to keep in your home are packs of solar energy batteries and chargers. These will be invaluable to everyone in your home, as they’ll help to re-power flashlights and cell phones. Chances are, after a disaster of medium to large magnitude, the power won’t be back on before your cell dies, and being out touch after a storm can be stressful and hectic.

Solar powered cooking equipment is also worth investing in if you’re in an area that is known to experience severe weather. A solar powered stove will enable you to cook food for your family even if electric and gas powered stoves aren’t in working order. Likewise, you can purchase solar powered refrigerators and freezers… who knew?? While you don’t have to run out and buy extra full-size refrigerators and freezers, it’s not a bad idea to keep smaller versions in your garage in case of an emergency.

It may not seem necessary right now, but if you experience an event in which you need food and a way to cook it, you’ll be set.

Another important factor to consider in case of an emergency is that if you have solar panels on your house, they will NOT be able to power your home. Solar panels run off of grids, which go down when power in the area does for safety reasons. If you have solar panels on your home, you can make them work when the power is out by purchasing a battery backup. These can typically cost 20-30% of the original solar energy system. While that might seem a little steep for something you don’t use every day, it could be a life-saver should the occasion to turn it on ever arises.

While we never wish for a dangerous storm or natural disaster, we hope that we’ve been able to provide a few helpful tips in case you ever experience one. Now go out and stock up on solar products!