By Craig Fugate
When you've been in the emergency management world as long as I have—whether it was on the ground in Florida or running FEMA—you learn fast that the difference between making it through a disaster and struggling often comes down to one thing: power. No electricity means no cold storage for food or medicine, no communication to reach loved ones or get emergency updates, and no way to keep vital medical devices going.
After hurricanes, we've seen communities knocked off the grid for days, sometimes weeks. In extreme cases, it can take more than a month to restore power. When I was dealing with major events like 2004 Hurricane Season when 4 hurricanes struck Floridal, I witnessed firsthand how power outages paralyze communities and delay recovery efforts. If you live in places like Florida, storm prep isn't just a checklist-it's a lifestyle. And if there's one lesson I keep coming back to, it's this: having your own independent source of power isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity.
That's why Jackery's solar generators have become an essential part of my personal storm kit. Their portable power stations are designed for real-world emergencies, and they've changed the way I think about staying prepared.
Why Jackery Is a Go-To for Preparedness
When a hurricane blows through, even small things like charging your phone can be a lifeline. Jackery's portable power stations and solar panels are some of the most efficient and dependable options I've found. During Hurricane Ian and other storms, I relied on my Jackery Explorer 1000 to power essential devices—everything from my ham radio station to my phone, keeping me connected with emergency contacts and real-time updates. It's light enough to move around the house, and the solar panels give me renewable energy once the skies clear.
What makes Jackery stand out is the versatility. Even outside hurricane season, these power stations come in handy. Whether it's an unexpected outage or a long road trip, having clean, quiet energy at my fingertips gives me peace of mind.
Solar Power: A Game-Changer in Disaster Response
In the aftermath of major hurricanes, traditional gas generators can feel more like a liability than an asset. Fuel shortages are common, and storing gasoline safely is a hassle. Then there's the noise—if you've ever lived through a storm recovery, you know the constant drone of gas generators becomes unbearable. Worse yet, gas generators come with real dangers. Carbon monoxide poisoning kills more people after storms than many realize, usually because generators are placed too close to homes or run in garages.
That's where solar power is a game-changer. Jackery's solar generators eliminate the need for fuel, reduce noise, and—most importantly—are safe to use indoors. You don't have to worry about deadly fumes or running out of gas. Just unfold the solar panels, catch some sun, and you're back in business.
Preparedness Is Planning Ahead
Year after year, as hurricane season rolls around, I remind folks that being prepared goes beyond bottled water and canned food. It's about having the right tools to stay safe and connected, no matter what nature throws at you. For me, that means having a reliable source of portable power—and Jackery fits the bill perfectly.
Their newest product, the Explorer 5000 Plus, offers even more capacity and flexibility, with options to fit any home setup—whether you're in an apartment, a house, or even on the move in an RV. It's not just about emergencies either; these power stations are just as useful for camping, tailgating, or off-the-grid adventures. Jackery has a solution for everyone, and that's what makes them such a valuable partner in preparedness.
Why I Trust Jackery
After a lifetime of managing disasters, I don't make endorsements lightly. But I've seen how critical power is during a crisis, and I've made Jackery part of my own storm plan. With Jackery, I know I'll have the power I need—whether it's for a short-term outage or the long recovery that follows a major storm.
If you live in an area prone to hurricanes or other natural disasters, take my advice: think about your power needs before the lights go out. Having a reliable backup power source like Jackery can make all the difference between riding out the storm or struggling to get by.
About the Author
Craig Fugate is the former Administrator of FEMA and a long-time advocate for disaster preparedness. With decades of experience managing storms and emergencies, Craig now shares insights on how families and communities can stay safe during crises. Living in Gainesville, FL, Craig relies on Jackery's portable power solutions to stay ready for whatever comes next.
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