Thomson, IL (PRWEB) July 24, 2013 -- 2013 has already seen spectacular action from solar flares, from the powerful X-Class flares in May (http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2013/05/14/nasa-sun-emits-largest-solar-flares-of-2013) to the other impressive flares in June and July (http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/sunearth/news/News062013-cme.html). Astronomers predict that the sun will continue to emit significant flares until the solar maximum expected toward the end of the year, prompting many to worry about the effects on the power grid and sensitive electronic devices. A new article on Off The Grid News, How To Reduce Your Risk From An EMP, addresses these concerns.
The article begins by explaining some of the problems that may be caused by solar flares, stating “The biggest risk that scientists are concerned about is that of electromagnetic pulse (EMP). This is the same sort of radiation that occurs when a nuclear bomb is exploded above the atmosphere. Since the lack of an atmosphere prevents the energy from going out as a physical shock wave, it goes out as electromagnetic energy. Since the sun (or any star) is essentially the same as a sustained nuclear explosion or hydrogen bomb, it produces large quantities of electromagnetic energy as well, especially during times of solar flares.” The greatest risk from these pulses is the failure of unprotected electronics, and since much of the infrastructure depends on electronics there is cause for concern.
However, the author describes methods to protect both small and large electronics, from cell phones to cars and houses. Small devices may be protected in a Faraday cage, which is easy to make. The article states, “First of all, the cage must totally surround the electronic device. If there are any gaps, then it may be possible for the electromagnetic radiation to enter. Secondly, the electronic devices inside must be fully insulated from any physical or electrical contact with the faraday cage itself. This is accomplished by insulating the cage with a non-conductive material.” Appliances, computers, and other things that must be plugged in can be protected by a simple surge protector.
The article further remarks that everything should be grounded, stating “The earth itself is the best electrical ground there is. Your home electrical grid is probably grounded to earth. Electrical code requires that the circuit breaker box by grounded. This is usually accomplished through a copper-plated rod, installed through the foundation, right below the electrical box (it’s usually hidden in the wall). … Driving a ground rod into the ground next to where you park your car provides you with a simple way of grounding your car at home.”
Off The Grid News is an independent organization devoted to providing practical information about living today and in light of the challenges of the future. The news team looks for the truth beneath the facts of all the top news stories and how they will affect your life.
Tony Belha, Solutions From Science, Inc., http://www.solutionsfromscience.com, (815) 259-0168, [email protected]
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