Power Up Your Preparedness:

The Benefits of a Generator for Your Parish

Power outages can occur for several reasons, including extreme weather events or planned maintenance by a utility company. Prolonged outages are not just annoying and inconvenient – they can be extremely disruptive to the life of a parish on a weekend when multiple Masses are scheduled, and even dangerous if security systems and medical equipment cannot be accessed properly during an emergency. A generator can provide a backup power source during an electrical power outage.

Since generators operate on non-electric fuel sources, parishes should consider purchasing and installing a generator to ensure smooth operations within the office, church, and other facilities in case of an outage.

Having a generator can provide peace of mind that the following critical functions continue with no interruption during a power outage:

• Lighting. This can include both indoor and outdoor lighting.
• HVAC systems. The continuation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning will keep the parish’s temperature comfortable.
• Sound systems. Masses, liturgies, and parish events requiring the use of microphones and speakers can continue as planned.
• Security systems. Security cameras and alarms would benefit from the seamless transition of power provided by a generator so that there is no lapse in protection during an emergency.
• Other technology. Computers, internet connectivity, phones, and live-streaming equipment all depend on a reliable source of power to continue running.
• Refrigeration. This may be especially useful in parishes with a food pantry that may be storing perishable items for distribution. In the case of a parish event where food and beverages are being served, continued refrigeration may also be necessary. Some parishes may even act as a hub for their local communities during an emergency such as a natural disaster. Having a generator installed could prove to be a benefit to the community at large.

There are two main types of generators to choose from – the best fit will depend upon the size and energy needs of your parish.

• Portable Generators: These are suitable for smaller parishes, or for short-term power needs. A portable generator needs to be set up and turned on manually. They are usually fueled using gasoline or diesel.
• Standby Generators: These are ideal for larger parishes, or smaller parishes with greater power demands. Standby generators are installed permanently on the premises and connected to the parish’s electrical system. Unlike portable generators, standby generators are designed to kick-in automatically in the case of a power failure. They are usually powered by natural gas, propane, or diesel.

To determine the kind of generator best suited for your parish, consider the following:

• What are the total power needs of the parish? An electrician can provide a detailed analysis of the devices and systems used.
• What are the essential systems and equipment that need to be prioritized in the case of a power outage? Does the parish have any medical devices that rely on a power source?
• What kind of fuel is accessible and affordable in the area (gasoline, diesel, etc.)?
• Where can fuel be safely stored on the premises?

Purchasing a generator involves paying for the equipment, installation and fuel. Generators also require regular maintenance, such as regular oil changes, filter replacements, and testing. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services recommends reading all the manufacturer instructions before using a generator to ensure safety. Furthermore, the department recommends taking the following steps for generator safe use:

• Purchase a generator from an approved list of nationally recognized testing laboratories, such as Underwriters Laboratories.
• Have a licensed electrician install the generator. In Massachusetts, local codes must be complied with. A professional can provide the expertise needed and ensure that regulations are followed. These regulations can include local noise ordinances and specific placement requirements.
• Follow the manufacturer instructions for maintaining the generator. Use only the type of fuel that the generator is designed for.
• Install multiple carbon monoxide (CO) detectors inside the buildings. Generators burn fuel to produce electricity, emitting carbon monoxide as a byproduct. Because carbon monoxide is a gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, detectors are essential to providing a safe environment in the vicinity of a generator.
• Transporting fuel requires following certain regulations. Gasoline must be transported in an approved container, standing upright, in the trunk of a car or back of a truck. Only a maximum of 21 gallons, with no single container exceeding 7 gallons, can be transported without a permit from the fire department. The transportation of any amount over 21 gallons requires a permit.

In times of uncertainty, having a reliable power source is more than a convenience – it’s a safeguard for the parish community. Installing a generator ensures uninterrupted services and provides a safe and welcoming space even during unforeseen outages. By investing in a generator, your parish can continue to be a beacon of support when it’s needed most. Preparedness today guarantees peace of mind for tomorrow.

Sources:

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/generator-safety
https://www.sescos.com/sescos-guide-to-commercial-generator-installation/
https://www.fmgenerator.com/