12/08/2025
Emergency Preparedness Starts at Home
How Backup Power Can Keep You Safe and Independent
Part 1
The Roseburg Fire Department joins the Oregon Department of Emergency Management in encouraging all community members to plan ahead and explore backup power options to help ensure safety, health, and independence during emergencies.
For many Oregonians, electricity is more than a modern convenience, it is a critical lifeline. Residents who depend on electrically powered medical equipment such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators, dialysis machines, or mobility devices face significant risks when the power goes out. Whether caused by wildfires, floods, lightning storms, and other severe weather, outages can occur with little or no warning.
Today, we will share information on understanding your equipment’s power needs and how to explore backup power options. Tomorrow, we will bring you additional information on financial assistance and resources for backup power systems and additional tips on backup power options.
Part 1 -
Understand Your Equipment’s Power Needs
Before seeking backup power, it’s essential to know:
• What devices you use and how critical they are to your health.
• How much power each device consumes (check the label or user manual).
• How long you need backup power — a few hours, a full day or longer.
Consult your health care provider or equipment supplier to get accurate information and recommendations tailored to your situation.
Explore Backup Power Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but here are common alternatives:
Battery backup systems
• Ideal for short-term outages.
• Portable and quiet.
• Some models are designed specifically for medical devices.
• Can be recharged via wall outlets, solar panels or car adapters.
Portable generators
• Provide power for multiple devices or even parts of your home.
• Require fuel such as gasoline, propane or diesel.
• Must be operated outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• May need professional installation if connected to home circuits.
Solar power systems
• Sustainable and quiet.
• Can be paired with battery storage for extended use.
• Useful in areas with frequent outages or limited fuel access.
• Initial costs can be high, but incentives may be available.
Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
• Provide immediate backup for short durations.
• These are commonly used for computers but can support small medical devices.
• Not suitable for long outages but helpful during brief disruptions.
Information courtesy of the Roseburg Fire Department and Oregon Department of Emergency Management
