The recent storm in the Bay Area highlights the vulnerability of older backup power systems to natural disasters. Even if a community has not experienced extended outages during wildfire season, it’s important to regularly maintain and upgrade backup power systems to extend their lifespan and ensure reliability during emergencies. Older generators, in particular, may be more vulnerable to failure during extended use. Regular maintenance and upgrades can help extend the lifespan of these generators and ensure that they are reliable during emergencies, however, no matter how well-maintained a generator may be, it will eventually reach the end of its lifespan and need to be replaced. We lost many of our older generators as parts have become obsolete. Just like any other mechanical equipment, generators have a finite lifespan and will eventually wear out, even with the best possible maintenance. Proactive steps, like testing your generator before the storm arrives, checking oil levels, having a backup plan, and monitoring weather forecasts, can help communities provide critical resources during power outages caused by natural disasters. As supply chain delays are affecting every generator manufacturer, communities should also plan well-ahead for the eventual replacement of backup power systems, which may involve budgeting for new generators or alternative backup power options. By preparing for emergencies, communities can withstand the impacts of natural disasters and recover more quickly.