Why every home needs a backup generator

We all take the little things for granted like the use of power running the refrigerator, microwave, TV, and other appliances or electronics in our homes. Why? Because power is usually on without even the slightest problem most of the time. But what about those times when there are power outages? That is when we realize that electrical power is a great necessity to our every living from providing heat and light to cooking our meals. For those who have realized this importance and have bought a standby power generator from their homes, the idea of prolonged blackouts is not as scary.
Why does every home need a power generator? Well lets take a look at the ice storm of 1998 that plagued the North Eastern part of the United States and Canada. Many casualties from hypothermia to other causes effected the people of the region as prolonged blackouts kept homes without electricity. Those that had power generators were lucky as they were still with power and could perform everyday functions like laundry, heat baths, and other everyday activities you could not imagine going without. Those without power generators had to tough out the storm and blackouts or find someone who would lend them a generator. Just from this case alone, shows the need for power generators in every home. Many other incidents besides ice storms, like the 2003 power outage in the northeastern United States that caused several power plants to shut down, can render an area without power for up to a week. Other natural disasters such as tornados, hurricanes, floods, and mudslides can cause the same crippling damage to power lines and effect homes all over a region. Many businesses have power generators to protect their assets. The same case can be presented for homes. Is it not a safe bet to buy a power generator to protect the people in your house from the what ifs.