Plumber: Generate a pre-storm plan

I like to call this the "generator season," since it's a time when many homeowners think about getting a standard portable generator, or a standby generator. Standby generators are permanently installed to a home's electrical system by a licensed contractor, and run on natural or propane gas.

Generators are hot items when big storms hit, because it's important to keep electrical equipment like sump pumps and refrigerators running. Of course, if your local officials tell you to evacuate, get out of town as soon as possible. With that in mind, here are a few more common sense storm tips that may come in handy when bad weather approaches:

— Informing others: Before the storm hits and after you've made plans to evacuate or ride out the storm, be sure to change all your outgoing home-phone, cellphone and auto e-mail messages, letting people know what your plans are. It's an efficient way to inform friends and family where you're going, without having to take the time to make individual phone calls to everyone you know. It's also a great backup in case some services go down and you can't make outgoing calls.

— Make efficient use of outdoor furniture: A big tip you hear every year is to tie down your patio furniture so it won't fly around the yard or through a window. Well, a common sense tip can be to take outdoor furniture into your house instead, and set it up in the safe room where everyone will ride out the storm. This way the room can be more comfortable with extra tables and seating for you and your family. Lounge chairs can make excellent portable beds if neighbors are staying over as well.

— Use your car for a short-term power source: It's always a good idea to have your car full of gas before the storm. Not only is it a good way to ensure you can evacuate, but if you're stranded at home with no electrical power, you can use your car's built-in generator system to power small electronics. Just make sure you have all the proper cigarette lighter adapters for devices like computers, TVs, camping coolers and cellphone chargers. Don't forget safety when powering up the electronics: always run the vehicle outdoors, away from the house, with the car windows open.

Bottom line: Having a storm-ready home-generator system is the most powerful preparation you can make.

Master Contractor/Plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of the book "Ed Del Grande's House Call" and hosts TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com. For more information, visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@hgtvpro.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.

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