Shielding Your Tech
A little preparation can go a long way in protecting everything from your television to your treasured photos on your computer.
The biggest threats to your electronics during a storm are power surges – sudden, intense spikes in electrical voltage. These can occur from lightning strikes, even if they don’t directly hit your home, or from power lines being re-energized after an outage.
Here’s how to safeguard your gadgets:
1. Unplug, Unplug, Unplug! The simplest and most effective defense is to unplug electronics from the wall outlets. This cuts off the path for any damaging surges. Don’t forget to unplug cable lines and phone lines too, as surges can travel through these. This applies to everything from your TV and computer to smaller appliances, such as coffee makers.
2. Invest in Surge Protectors: For devices that can’t be easily unplugged (or if you want an extra layer of protection), good-quality surge protectors are essential. These devices divert excess electricity away from your electronics. Look for surge protectors with a high “joule” rating, which indicates how much energy they can absorb before failing. Remember, not all power strips are surge protectors, so be sure to check the labeling carefully.
3. Consider a Whole-Home Solution: If your community or home offers it, a whole-house surge protector installed at your electrical panel provides comprehensive protection for all appliances and devices connected to your home’s electrical system, even hardwired ones. This offers a significant peace of mind.
4. The Role of a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): For crucial electronics like your computer, a UPS offers both surge protection and a battery backup. This allows you to safely shut down your computer during a power outage, preventing data loss and potential damage to your hardware. While more expensive than a simple surge protector, a UPS is a smart investment for devices containing important information.
5. Data Backup is Key: Even with the best physical protection, accidents can happen. Regularly back up important data from your computer, smartphone, and other devices to ensure data security. Use an external hard drive stored in a safe, dry place, or consider cloud storage services. This ensures your precious memories and documents are safe, regardless of what happens to your devices.
6. Stay Informed and Act Early: Monitor weather forecasts and follow warnings from local authorities. The sooner you prepare, the less rushed and stressed you’ll be when a storm approaches.
By taking these simple steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your electronics and ensure you stay connected and entertained, even when the Florida weather turns wild.
