As spring approaches, so does the threat of severe weather. Houma, Morgan City, Thibodaux, and the surrounding areas frequently experience powerful thunderstorms, heavy winds, and even hurricanes. While we can’t control the weather, we can take steps to prepare and protect our homes and families. At Shockwave Generators & Electric, we want to help you stay safe and ensure your electrical system and generator are ready for anything nature throws your way.
Understanding Spring Storm Risks
Springtime in Louisiana brings unpredictable weather, including severe thunderstorms, high winds, heavy rainfall, and hurricanes. These storms can cause widespread power outages, surges, and electrical hazards, leaving homes without power for days or even weeks. Preparing your electrical system and generator in advance can help keep your home safe and powered through any storm.
Steps to Prepare Your Home for Severe Weather
1. Protect Your Electrical System
Severe storms often bring power surges and outages, which can damage electrical components and appliances.
- Install whole-home surge protection to safeguard appliances, HVAC systems, and sensitive electronics.
- Ensure your electrical panel is up to code and can handle sudden disruptions.
- Secure outdoor electrical wiring and inspect for vulnerabilities before storm season.
2. Ensure Your Backup Generator is Storm-Ready
A backup generator is essential for keeping your home powered during an outage.
- Schedule a generator inspection and maintenance before storm season to ensure it’s in peak condition.
- Keep extra fuel or maintenance supplies on hand to avoid downtime.
- If you don’t already have a generator, consider installing one to maintain power when the grid goes down.
3. Secure Outdoor Electrical Equipment
High winds and heavy rain can damage outdoor electrical systems and increase the risk of outages.
- Cover outdoor outlets with weatherproof covers to prevent water damage.
- Secure electrical wires and outdoor panels to minimize exposure to wind and flying debris.
- Ensure your generator is properly anchored to prevent movement during a storm.
What to Do After a Storm
Once a storm passes and it’s safe to go outside, checking on your electrical system and generator is crucial before restoring power.
- Inspect your electrical panel for any signs of damage, such as burnt marks, exposed wires, or tripped breakers.
- If your home experienced flooding, do not turn on power until an electrician has inspected the system.
- Check your generator for damage before starting it—flooding or debris can cause malfunctions.
- If power surges occurred, inspect appliances and outlets for potential damage.
Stay Informed and Have a Plan
- Keep a weather radio or mobile alerts activated to stay updated on severe weather warnings.
- Create an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and bottled water.
- Have a backup power plan in place, especially if you rely on medical equipment or other essential electrical devices.
Shockwave Generators & Electric Is Here for You
At Shockwave Generators & Electric, we understand how crucial power is during and after severe weather. Our experienced technicians are on standby for generator installations, electrical inspections, and emergency repairs to help you recover quickly after a storm. Whether you need a whole-home generator, surge protection, or post-storm electrical inspections, we are just a phone call away at (985) 261-0937.
Don’t wait until severe weather strikes—take steps today to protect your electrical system and backup power. For professional inspections, installations, and emergency services, contact Shockwave Generators & Electric today.
