Survey Finds Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. Adults Endured Prolonged Power Outage Since 2012

September is National Preparedness Month, sponsored by FEMA

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Sep 09, 2014, 09:53 ET

MILWAUKEE, Sept. 9, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly one in four U.S. adults had to endure a power outage lasting 12 hours or longer in the last two years, according to a 2014 Harris Poll survey conducted on behalf of Briggs & Stratton Corporation (NYSE: BGG). Of those who were forced to go that long without power, 66 percent said they were motivated to prepare better for future emergency situations.

"The Harris Poll results underscore the discomfort and anxiety caused for families who struggle through an emergency situation unprepared," said Amanda Grandy, marketing manager, Briggs & Stratton Standby Power division. "September is National Preparedness Month and preparations made now will go a long way towards keeping everyone safe and comfortable when the next emergency situation arrives at a family's doorstep."

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsors National Preparedness Month each September. The agency encourages all families to make an emergency preparedness kit and have a family communications plan.

"After a kit is gathered and a communications plan is created, families should also consider taking their preparedness to the next level by investing in backup power to keep their home's lights and appliances working no matter the weather or the emergency," said Eric Loferski, director of marketing, Briggs & Stratton Portable Power division.

What is backup power?
Generators help ensure that families get through power outages caused by unexpected situations safely and comfortably by providing backup power. Two types of generators are available to homeowners and understanding their differences and capabilities makes selecting the best generator for your needs much easier.

Portable generators: The immediate backup power supply
Portable generators, often powered by gasoline, work well as an immediate solution during a power outage. They can power a few critical items and appliances such as a refrigerator, TV and basic light circuits.

It's important to note that stores quickly run out of portable generators in storm situations, so purchasing a portable generator before a storm arrives is the only way to be fully prepared.

Portable generators can be harmful if not operated properly. Only operate the generator outdoors and away from open windows or doors to avoid carbon monoxide fumes from entering the home. Homeowners should read and follow the generator maintenance and manufacturer's operating instructions before operating.

Standby generators: The long-term backup power supply
For those who want a backup power source that offers uninterrupted power, a standby generator is an ideal solution. The standby, or home, generator unit is connected to a home's existing propane or natural gas line so it turns on automatically within seconds when utility power to a home is knocked out. Homeowners can have peace of mind that their food won't spoil, air conditioning/heat will continue to run, and the sump pump won't turn off.

Standby generators can power more of a home's high-wattage appliances, like AC units, stoves and dryers. But unlike portable generators, home standby generators need to be professionally installed, so families need to allow for a period of installation.

About Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Briggs & Stratton Corporation, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is the world's largest producer of gasoline engines for outdoor power equipment. Its wholly owned subsidiaries include North America's number one marketer of portable generators and pressure washers, and it is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of lawn and garden and turf care through its Simplicity®, Snapper®, Snapper Pro® Ferris®, Murray®, Branco® and Victa® brands. Briggs & Stratton products are designed, manufactured, marketed and serviced in over 100 countries on six continents. For additional information, please visit www.basco.com and www.briggsandstratton.com.

Editor's Note: The survey referenced in this article was conducted online within the United States by Harris Poll on behalf of Briggs & Stratton from February 24 to 26, 2014, among 2,057 adults ages 18 and older.

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SOURCE Briggs & Stratton Corporation