DIY: Emergency Electric Power

Add up the wattage of every device in your home that you want to power during times without electricity. The wattage requirements should be listed on a label attached to the power cord or on the device itself. Multiply your total number by 1.5 to account for the extra power used during start-up.

Get a backup generator that has a wattage output exceeding the number you calculated. This guarantees you will be able to power your essentials during a power outage. If there are watts left over, you can potentially power other items as well. Backup generators are often powered by propane or natural gas. Store the fuel in containers designed for that particular fuel and follow all storing and handling instructions on the container.

Install a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector in your home if there isn't one there already to alert you if your generator starts releasing high amounts of carbon monoxide during operation.

Shut off all your breakers during a power outage and wheel your generator 10 feet away from your building. Run extension cords from the generator to the appliances and devices you need to operate, and plug them into the cords. Turn on the generator and then turn on the devices. Once power is restored, turn off the devices, shut off the generator, then turn all your breakers back on. This helps prevent power surges.

Store fresh batteries in a drawer for powering flashlights, smoke detectors and other small items during a power outage that wouldn't need a generator.