Storm & Security

20 STORM & SECURITY PROTECTION / IBS PREVIEW 2015 FIELD / WORK Power Ready Severe weather and power loss can threaten homes even hundreds of miles from the coast. Landfalling hurricanes along the East and Gulf coasts of the United States bring destructive winds and debris, and deadly storm surge and flooding that can endanger residents' lives and leave them homeless. The impact of a North Atlantic hurricane also can be felt hundreds of miles inland. A recent University of Iowa study found storms and flooding in the aftermath of a hurricane can develop as far as Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin. These areas face the additional hazards of severe windstorms, tornadoes and heavy rain and snowfall that occur unrelated to coastal conditions. The harsh effects of severe weather events can last much longer than the duration of any one storm when they cause the loss of electricity leaving residents figuratively and literally powerless. This is where home backup generators are needed most, keeping occupants of even the best protected homes safe and secure. Year-round Security In south central Wisconsin, Lake Geneva is a year-round destination for lake living, recreation and cultural amenities. Geneva Lake, the state's second deepest natural inland lake, is surrounded by beautifully landscaped yards and is home to many high-end, well-appointed estates. Some properties, dating back a century or more, feature elaborate mansions built by some of Chicago's most notable families including the Wrigleys; the heirs of meatpacking tycoon Gustavus Swift; and Harry Gordon Selfridge, founder of the London-based Selfridges department store. Whether historic or new, lake homes frequently are accosted by severe storms and weather-related dangers that result in power loss. Recently, a 12,000-square-foot mansion built on Geneva Lake was the demonstration site for the Generac 22kW Guardian Series home standby generator, which automatically provides electricity during a power outage so its owners can stay safe and continue normal living conditions. Being automatic, the Generac unit starts up on its own as soon as utility power is lost (within seconds) and runs until power is restored. The homeowner does not have to be home to turn on the unit. This feature is particularly beneficial for property owners who use a home seasonally, such as a lake house, and spend extended time at another location. During a heavy rainstorm, the home's sump pump, for example, will continue to operate normally and keep basements dry even if the owners are miles away. Even more important is that families occupying their homes can continue their lives as normal throughout severe storms and extended power outages. That means fresh food, refrigerated medicines stay usable and homeowners can use their telephones, laptops and maintain Internet connectivity. It's as if the electrical outage never happened. In Lake Geneva, WI, a 12,000-square-foot home became the demonstration site for Generac standby home generators. A simulated power outage showed the generator, installed near the home's foundation, kicking in just seconds after power loss.

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