By Kelley Electrical Contracting, LLC. Published October 16, 2026. Educational information, not a substitute for an on-site inspection.
Before an outage
Know where your main breaker is, keep flashlights and a battery radio ready, charge phones and power banks, and have a plan for anyone who depends on powered medical equipment. In California, utilities can also shut power off in advance during high wildfire risk (public safety power shutoffs), so find out whether your area is affected and how you will be notified.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
During an outage
Unplug sensitive electronics so a surge when power returns does not damage them. Leave one light switched on so you will know when power is back. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed: a refrigerator keeps food safe for about four hours and a full freezer for about 48 hours if you do not open the door.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
Generator safety
Run portable generators outdoors only, well away from windows, doors and vents, and never in a garage or enclosed space. Carbon monoxide from generators kills people every year. Never plug a generator into a wall outlet (backfeeding), which can energize utility lines and injure line workers. A licensed electrician can install a transfer switch or interlock that connects a generator safely.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
Battery backup as an alternative
Home battery systems such as Tesla Powerwall or Enphase batteries run silently with no fuel or fumes, switch on automatically and can power essential or whole-home loads depending on how they are installed.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
Frequently asked questions
Can I plug a generator into my dryer outlet?
No. That backfeeds the house and the utility and is dangerous and illegal in most places. Use a transfer switch or interlock installed by a licensed electrician.
How far should a generator be from the house?
Consumer safety guidance says to keep it outdoors and at least 20 feet from the house with the exhaust pointed away from windows and doors.
Is battery backup worth it?
It depends on how often you lose power and what you need to keep running. A licensed electrician can size a system to your critical loads.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
Sources and further reading
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Licensed California electrical contractor, license #1111378, bonded and insured. Serving Fresno, Clovis and Madera.