In climates where extreme weather conditions are a common occurrence, and seem to be becoming more radical, the question arises – Is it safe to trust only one power source? What if something goes wrong? The answer is simple: If you live in an area that suffers extreme weather, having more than one energy source is an absolute necessity.
As the saying goes,
“hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.”
In fact, having a backup/secondary system could very well be the difference between life and death.
When lives are at stake, it is imperative to have proper strategies in place that will help save lives. Moreover, backup systems are not just limited to power sources; they can also include alternative water and food sources. For instance, during freezing cold temperatures, without access to a backup heat source such as gas heat or a wood fireplace, people can be left vulnerable and might even lead to loss of life.
A prime example of the repercussions of a single power source failing was the unfortunate situation that unfolded in Texas, where more than 300 people lost their lives due to the electric grid going down. This unfortunate event demonstrated that relying on a single power source can have devastating consequences. It is an alarming reminder of the importance of having backup systems in place, not just in extreme weather conditions, but also for everyday living.
Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize backup systems and have them as a part of our everyday routine. Investing in backup systems may require an upfront cost, but the potential long-term benefits far outweigh the initial expense. By doing so, we can safeguard ourselves and our loved ones from any unforeseen circumstances that might arise.
If something goes wrong during an extreme weather event, it is expected that you may have to hunker down in a safe place and wait it out. If a winter storm knocks down a tree and takes out a power line, and you depend on your heat pump alone to stay warm – YOU ARE IN TROUBLE! You should have at least a safe room where there is a propane heater or an efficient fireplace with a good supply of wood.
If you consider not freezing to death important, then you should be concerned that there are efforts to outlaw gas heat and wood-burning fireplaces. Because someone could be affected by particulate is the argument. To me, it seems to be more political.
In New Jersey, a few years back, the governor outlawed over-easy eggs. Yes, it was for the good of the people… Someone could get sick from under-cooked eggs. The talk show host feasted on that one, like vultures on roadkill. People, in general, just did not follow the new law. They never did send out the raw egg police, and because it became such a joke about under-cooked yolk – the governor dropped the law.
Politician, mean well (or may have alternative motives), nonetheless – Do not let them take away your options for survival! They work for us – let them know to keep their hands off your eggs and sources of energy!
In conclusion, backup systems are not an option but a necessity, especially in regions with extreme weather or unreliable infrastructure. In addition to investing in backup/secondary systems, it is crucial to regularly maintain and test them to ensure they are functional when needed. A backup system that fails to work during a crisis is as good as not having one at all.
