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Industry expert reveals 'surprising' way to protect yourself during blackouts: 'People are once again dealing with widespread power outages'

This timely advice comes as severe weather is wreaking havoc on communities around the country.

Losing your power can be one of the most frustrating things for any homeowner. Luckily, your e-bike may be able to help.

Photo Credit: iStock

Losing power can be one of the most frustrating things for any homeowner, especially when personal devices are in desperate need of a charge. Luckily, one common item in your garage may be able to offer you some much-needed juice. 

Electric bike industry expert Micah Toll shared for Electrek a "surprising" tip that could make a huge difference for those left in the dark following a blackout. By turning to your e-bike's battery, you can charge your phone or any other small personal device that is low on power. 

Toll acknowledged that his timely advice comes as severe weather is wreaking havoc on communities around the country. 

"As a powerful winter storm sweeps across large parts of the U.S., millions of people are once again dealing with widespread power outages, icy roads, and limited access to basic services," Toll wrote. 

And while a blackout may render most of your large appliances useless, your e-bike's built-in USB port can ensure that "phones, radios, headlamps, and bike lights" at least have power. And since many e-bike battery models can hold between 500 and 1,000 watt-hours, you can keep those devices charged during extended outages.

Toll explained that paying attention to your region's forecast can prove to be a wise choice. If a severe winter storm is making its approach, ensure your e-bike is fully charged so its battery can perform during emergency situations. 

Even when the sun is shining and the weather is cooperating, e-bikes can be very beneficial to your well-being. An e-bike can even help save you a ton of money if you commute with one to work, replacing your car.

Using an e-bike can also come with a number of health benefits, offering a great source of daily exercise that can be easily achieved. And thanks to the electric assist on e-bikes, they can offer low-impact workouts for those with health concerns. 

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