Anker's new whole-home backup is the power outage solution of my dreams - here's why

Here's how to avoid the "invisible killer" and safely use a portable generator if the power goes out in the winter storm.

“Away from your home. Not inside your home. Not in your garages, your crawlspaces, under your porch or anything like that. Keep it at least 20 feet away from your building,” Fire Marshal Marcus Delaney said.

Depending on where you live, power outages can happen frequently in the winter — and not just during winter storms. Rain, sleet, high winds and trees falling can all damage power lines and equipment,

The city of Belpre is installing a generator to prevent water supply issues during extended power outages after discovering their water well fields lacked emergency power connections.

Early preparation can make all the difference during winter emergencies.

With snow and ice in the forecast, there is the chance that some across central North Carolina will lose power, perhaps for days. The quest to keep warm can bring risks -- from fire, carbon monoxide,

Wear warm clothes, a coat, and the appropriate shoes with socks. Properly dressing for the weather helps to prevent hypothermia and frostbite. If you are traveling, limit your time out in the elements and stay dry. FOX23 shared a few tips on how to stay safe while driving in winter weather .

Thankfully, the best portable generators and power stations serve as your first line of defense against any power outage, keeping your essential devices and appliances running when you need them the most.