Michael
Petruccelli says: Purchase a generator. Generally, a generator should be big enough to run your refrigerator,
a lamp or two, any fans, and any special durable medical equipment needed by a
member of your family. If your family does have special health or medical
needs, or you absolutely must have air conditioning, be prepared to pay
handsomely for a generator that can handle it. The best option in this latter
case is to have the generator wired into your home power so the generator will
start when the power goes out. Taking this precaution is even more important if
only one person in the home knows how, or is strong enough, to start the
generator. Search the web for generator wattage calculators to make sure you
don't buy more generator than you need - your wallet will thank you at the gas
pump.