When Fort Wayne lost power for 14,500 residents in August 2022, many families discovered they weren’t prepared for the dangerous aftermath. Beyond sitting in darkness, power outages create hidden electrical hazards that could cost you thousands—or worse.
Power outages strike without warning, leaving families scrambling in the dark and potentially facing dangerous electrical hazards. Whether caused by severe winter storms, summer thunderstorms, or equipment failures, these interruptions can disrupt daily life and create serious safety risks if not handled properly.
Fort Wayne's location in northeastern Indiana makes it particularly vulnerable to weather-related power disruptions. In August 2022, storms caused power outages affecting 14,500 Indiana Michigan Power customers, with the majority concentrated in the Fort Wayne area. These outages weren't just minor inconveniences—they lasted for hours or even days, leaving families without heat, lighting, or the ability to preserve food and medications.
The consequences of being unprepared extend far beyond temporary discomfort. Power outages can disrupt water systems, shut down medical devices that people depend on for their health, spoil food in refrigerators and freezers, and prevent communication with emergency services. Having a detailed emergency plan isn't optional—it's necessary for protecting both family safety and property.
"The first few minutes after losing power are critical for preventing equipment damage and ensuring family safety," explain the electricians at Mister Sparky of Fort Wayne. "Taking the right immediate actions can save thousands of dollars in appliance replacements and protect against electrical hazards when power returns." The team lists three steps homeowners need to take right after power goes out.
When electricity returns after an outage, it often comes back with powerful surges that can destroy sensitive electronics and appliances. Unplug televisions, computers, microwave ovens, and other electronic devices immediately when the power goes out. Leave one light switched on so you'll know when electricity is restored, but disconnect everything else until power stabilizes. This simple step protects valuable equipment from voltage spikes that commonly occur during power restoration.
Never operate generators, camping stoves, charcoal grills, or other combustion-powered devices indoors, including in garages or enclosed porches. These devices produce carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can be fatal within minutes. Even using a gas stove or oven for heating poses serious risks. Combustion gases can accumulate rapidly in enclosed spaces, creating deadly conditions that claim lives every year during power outages.
Assume every downed power line is energized and extremely dangerous. These lines can carry thousands of volts of electricity and remain deadly even when they appear inactive. Stay at least 30 feet away from any fallen lines, and never attempt to move them or objects touching them. Contact your utility company immediately to report downed lines, and warn others to keep their distance until professional crews can safely de-energize and remove them.
Preparing for power outages requires more than just hoping for the best. Families need specific supplies that can sustain them through extended outages while maintaining safety and communication with the outside world.
Stock enough non-perishable food and water to last at least 72 hours for every family member. Choose items that require minimal or no cooking, such as canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits, and nuts. Store one gallon of water per person per day, including water for pets. Keep needed medications properly stored and easily accessible, along with a first-aid kit containing bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications family members require daily.
Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns provide safer illumination than candles, which pose fire risks. Stock multiple light sources throughout the home, along with extra batteries in various sizes. A battery-powered or hand-cranked emergency radio keeps families informed about weather conditions, restoration progress, and emergency instructions from local authorities. Cell phones may work intermittently during outages, but having backup communication methods ensures you can reach emergency services if needed.
Generators offer the most complete solution for maintaining power during extended outages, but they require careful consideration of safety requirements and local regulations to operate effectively and legally.
Portable generators provide flexible, lower-cost power solutions but must never be operated indoors or in enclosed spaces. Position them at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the home. Use heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use, and never plug generators directly into wall outlets, which can create dangerous back-feed conditions. Backup generators offer automatic operation and greater convenience but require professional installation and connection to the home's electrical system by qualified electricians.
Generator installation in Indiana typically ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the unit's size, fuel type, and installation complexity. These costs include the generator itself, transfer switch installation, electrical connections, and permits required by local building codes. Professional installation ensures compliance with Fort Wayne's electrical regulations and prevents dangerous installation errors that could create fire hazards or electrocution risks. Licensed electricians understand local code requirements and can properly size generators to meet specific household power needs.
Not all power issues stem from external utility problems. Sometimes outages or electrical disruptions indicate underlying problems within the home's electrical system that require immediate professional attention.
Circuit breakers that trip repeatedly during or after power outages indicate potential overloading, faulty wiring, or damaged electrical components. These safety devices protect against electrical fires and electrocution, so frequent tripping signals that something isn't working properly. Professional electricians can identify whether the problem stems from overloaded circuits, deteriorated wiring, or defective breakers that need replacement.
Any burning odors, scorch marks around outlets, or visible wire damage after power restoration requires emergency electrical service. These signs indicate dangerous conditions that could lead to electrical fires or electrocution. Turn off power to affected circuits immediately and avoid using electrical devices in areas where burning smells or damage are present. Professional assessment can determine the extent of damage and ensure safe repairs.
Severe storms can damage electrical systems in ways that aren't immediately obvious. Water intrusion, fallen tree limbs, and power surges can compromise wiring, outlets, and electrical panels. After major weather events, having qualified electricians inspect the entire electrical system helps identify hidden damage before it creates safety hazards or causes equipment failures.
When electrical emergencies strike, having access to qualified emergency electricians can mean the difference between minor inconvenience and major property damage. Professional emergency services address immediate safety concerns while preventing small problems from escalating into costly repairs or dangerous situations.
Whether dealing with post-storm electrical damage, generator installation needs, or urgent electrical repairs, professional electricians with guarantees provide the expertise and equipment necessary to restore power safely and identify potential hazards that untrained individuals might miss.
