Stay Powered, Stay Safe
Power outages are more than a mere inconvenience—they can jeopardize your safety, damage electronics, and disrupt daily routines. Whether caused by powerful windstorms, fallen trees, or aging infrastructure, blackouts can strike with little warning. But being unprepared isn’t your only option.
At McCarthy Electric and Technologies, we serve the communities of Lynnwood, Lake Stevens, and surrounding areas with dependable, 24/7 emergency service and expert insight. With over 25 years of experience and a commitment to safety and efficiency, we believe every home and business should be ready long before the power goes out. Here’s how to make that happen.
Build a Power Outage Emergency Kit: Your First Line of Defense
Preparedness begins with a simple question: If the power went out right now, would you be ready?
Every household should maintain an emergency kit tailored to meet the basic needs of every family member. This ensures you stay safe, nourished, and informed—especially during multi-day outages.
What to include:
- LED flashlights and headlamps
- Extra batteries (check expiration dates twice a year)
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Portable power banks for phones and medical devices
- Bottled water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
- Ready-to-eat, non-perishable food
- Manual can opener
- Blankets, gloves, and warm clothing
- Copies of important documents (in a waterproof container)
Pro Tip from a Licensed Electrician: Avoid candles—they pose a fire hazard. Stick with battery-powered lights for safe illumination.
Protect Your Electrical System from Surges and Spikes
Blackouts don’t just stop power—they can cause dangerous power surges when electricity returns. These sudden voltage spikes can permanently damage your electronics and appliances or even start electrical fires.
Smart protective measures:
- Whole-home surge protection: A system-wide solution that guards your electrical panel and sensitive equipment.
- Unplug major appliances: TVs, gaming systems, and computers should be unplugged when storms roll in.
- Label your breaker panel: Ensure everyone in the home knows how to shut off circuits if needed.
- Generator backup integration: With a standby generator installed by a licensed electrician, you’ll keep essential systems running seamlessly.
Did you know? Even smaller, frequent surges can degrade electronics over time—making prevention essential, not optional.
Know What to Do When the Power Goes Out
When the lights flicker off, quick action and a calm plan can prevent bigger issues. Here’s what our Tesla-certified team recommends:
During the outage:
- Assess your surroundings: Is the outage limited to your property? If so, call a licensed electrician for an inspection.
- Turn off sensitive appliances: This avoids damaging surges when power returns.
- Leave one light on: You’ll know the moment power is restored.
- Avoid opening the fridge: A full freezer can keep food cold for up to 48 hours.
According to the FDA, refrigerated food is only safe for about four hours without power. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.
Invest in Smart Electrical Upgrades for Long-Term Resilience
Modern homes require modern solutions. If your system is outdated or underpowered, you’re more vulnerable to outages and equipment failure. A licensed electrician can assess and upgrade your setup for safety and performance.
Consider these upgrades:
- Panel upgrades: Today’s homes often exceed the demand older panels were built to handle. We offer full replacements, smart panels, and load-balancing solutions.
- EV charging stations: Protect your investment with proper installation and surge protection.
- Smart energy systems: Track usage, control circuits remotely, and prioritize essential loads during a blackout.
McCarthy Electric Advantage: We go beyond basic installations by performing formal load calculations, especially for HVAC and EV systems, to prevent overload and ensure compliance with Washington State codes.
Partner With a Licensed Electrician Near You
DIY solutions can be tempting—but when it comes to electrical safety and compliance, there’s no substitute for expertise. Hiring a licensed electrician near you ensures peace of mind and long-lasting results.
Why choose McCarthy Electric and Technologies?
- Tesla-certified and Qmerit-approved technicians
- 100% workmanship guarantee
- Specialized expertise in residential remodels, EV chargers, and panel upgrades
- Emergency service availability 24/7
- Local and trusted—serving Lynnwood, Lake Stevens, Marysville, Everett, and surrounding cities
When you choose McCarthy Electric, you’re not just hiring an electrician—you’re gaining a trusted partner who puts your family’s safety and comfort first.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for the Next Blackout
A well-prepared home is a safe home. Power outages are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. By creating a plan, investing in smart systems, and partnering with your local licensed electrician, you’re ensuring that when the power goes out—your peace of mind stays on.
Schedule a free estimate or explore our panel upgrade services to protect your home before the next storm hits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a generator myself?
While portable generators can be plugged into appliances, standby generators must be installed by a licensed electrician to ensure they integrate properly and safely with your panel and home wiring.
How often should I test my home backup power systems?
Test portable and standby generators every 1–3 months. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
What size panel upgrade do I need for an EV charger?
It depends on your home’s total load. Our electricians provide formal load calculations to determine if a 200-amp upgrade is required.