Energy Ready Home

Category: Emergency Preparedness

  • How to Keep Internet Service Running During a Power Outage

    Quick Answer

    Keeping internet service running during a power outage typically requires backup power for your modem, router, and any networking equipment. In many cases, internet service providers continue operating during local outages, allowing homeowners to stay connected if their equipment remains powered.

    Why Internet Access Matters During Outages

    Internet connectivity provides access to:

    • Emergency alerts
    • Weather updates
    • Utility outage information
    • Communication tools
    • Remote work capabilities

    Maintaining internet access can significantly improve safety and convenience during an outage.

    Understand What Needs Power

    Most home internet systems include:

    • A modem
    • A Wi-Fi router
    • Network switches (if applicable)
    • Security devices connected to the network

    All of these devices require electricity to operate.

    Check Whether Your Internet Provider Is Still Operating

    Not all outages affect internet service providers equally.

    Sometimes:

    • Your home loses power
    • The provider’s infrastructure remains operational

    In these situations, backup power can keep internet service available.

    Use a Portable Power Station

    Portable power stations are one of the easiest ways to keep internet equipment running.

    Benefits include:

    • Quiet operation
    • Indoor-safe use
    • Long runtime for low-power devices
    • Ability to power multiple devices simultaneously

    Many routers and modems consume relatively little electricity.

    Consider an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

    Some homeowners use:

    • UPS battery backups

    These systems can:

    • Automatically supply power
    • Prevent service interruptions
    • Protect equipment from power fluctuations

    They are commonly used for networking equipment.

    Reduce Unnecessary Network Loads

    During outages:

    • Limit high-bandwidth activities
    • Reduce unnecessary streaming
    • Prioritize critical communications

    This can help maximize backup power resources.

    Support Related Devices

    Many homeowners also power:

    • Smartphones
    • Tablets
    • Security cameras
    • Smart home hubs

    while maintaining internet connectivity.

    Common Mistakes

    Avoid:

    • Forgetting modem power requirements
    • Assuming internet service automatically stops
    • Failing to test backup equipment
    • Ignoring battery maintenance

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Will my internet provider continue working during a power outage?

    Often yes, depending on the provider’s infrastructure and the scope of the outage.

    How much power do modems and routers use?

    Most consume relatively small amounts of electricity compared to major appliances.

    Are portable power stations a good solution?

    Yes. They are often ideal for networking equipment due to their efficiency and quiet operation.

    Final Thoughts

    Internet access can remain available during many power outages if networking equipment has backup power. Planning ahead with portable power stations or battery backup systems can help households stay connected when it matters most.

    Related Articles

  • How Long Will an Upright Freezer Stay Cold Without Power?

    Quick Answer

    An upright freezer will typically keep food frozen for approximately 24 to 48 hours during a power outage if the door remains closed. The exact duration depends on how full the freezer is, the freezer’s insulation, room temperature, and how often the door is opened.

    Why Upright Freezers Lose Cold Air Faster

    Unlike chest freezers, upright freezers open from the front.

    When the door is opened:

    • Cold air falls out more easily
    • Warm air enters the freezer
    • Internal temperatures rise more quickly

    This is one reason chest freezers often retain cold temperatures longer during outages.

    How Freezer Fullness Affects Food Preservation

    A full freezer stays cold significantly longer than a partially filled freezer.

    Benefits include:

    • Greater thermal mass
    • More stable temperatures
    • Slower thawing

    Keeping frozen containers of water inside can help improve cold retention.

    Keep the Door Closed

    The most important action is simple:

    Keep the freezer door closed.

    Every opening:

    • Releases cold air
    • Accelerates warming
    • Reduces safe storage time

    Opening the freezer only when absolutely necessary can extend food preservation significantly.

    General Freezer Timeline During Outages

    Approximate expectations:

    • First 24 hours → Most food remains frozen
    • 24–48 hours → Many foods remain safely frozen if unopened
    • Beyond 48 hours → Careful food safety evaluation becomes important

    Actual results vary by freezer model and conditions.

    How to Determine if Food Is Still Safe

    Food may still be safe if:

    • Ice crystals remain visible
    • Food remains partially frozen
    • Internal temperatures remain within safe ranges

    A freezer thermometer can provide valuable guidance.

    Backup Power Options

    Homeowners frequently use:

    • Portable power stations
    • Standby generators
    • Portable generators

    to maintain freezer operation during extended outages.

    Backup power can help prevent significant food loss.

    Common Mistakes

    Avoid:

    • Opening the door repeatedly
    • Assuming food remains safe indefinitely
    • Ignoring temperature monitoring
    • Delaying backup power deployment

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is an upright freezer worse than a chest freezer during outages?

    Generally, chest freezers retain cold temperatures more efficiently, but upright freezers can still preserve food effectively when kept closed.

    Can thawed food be refrozen?

    In some situations, yes. Food that still contains ice crystals may often be safely refrozen.

    Should I use a freezer thermometer?

    Yes. A thermometer provides more accurate information than visual inspection alone.

    Final Thoughts

    An upright freezer can preserve food for many hours during a power outage when managed properly. Keeping the door closed, monitoring temperatures, and planning backup power solutions can help protect food and reduce waste.

    Related Articles

  • How Long Will a Chest Freezer Stay Cold Without Power?

    Quick Answer

    A chest freezer can typically keep food frozen for approximately 24 to 48 hours during a power outage if it remains closed. The exact duration depends on the freezer’s size, how full it is, ambient temperatures, and how often the lid is opened.

    Why Chest Freezers Perform Well During Outages

    Chest freezers are generally more efficient at retaining cold temperatures than upright freezers.

    This is because:

    • Cold air naturally sinks
    • Less cold air escapes when opened
    • Thick insulation helps retain temperatures

    These characteristics make chest freezers one of the best appliances for food preservation during outages.

    How Freezer Fullness Affects Cold Retention

    A full freezer stays cold longer than a partially filled freezer.

    Benefits of a full freezer include:

    • More thermal mass
    • Better temperature stability
    • Slower warming during outages

    If your freezer is not full, containers of frozen water can help increase thermal mass.

    Keep the Lid Closed

    One of the most important rules is:

    Do not open the freezer unnecessarily.

    Every opening:

    • Releases cold air
    • Increases internal temperatures
    • Reduces food preservation time

    Keeping the lid closed can significantly extend safe storage times.

    Approximate Freezer Temperature Timeline

    General estimates:

    • First 24 hours → Most food remains safely frozen
    • 24–48 hours → Many foods remain frozen if unopened
    • Beyond 48 hours → Food safety should be evaluated carefully

    Actual performance varies by freezer model and conditions.

    Signs Food May Still Be Safe

    Foods may remain usable if:

    • Ice crystals are still present
    • Food remains at safe temperatures
    • Items have not completely thawed

    When in doubt, follow food safety guidelines.

    Backup Power Options

    Homeowners often use:

    • Portable power stations
    • Standby generators
    • Portable generators

    to extend freezer operation during outages.

    Backup power can prevent substantial food loss.

    Common Mistakes

    Avoid:

    • Opening the lid repeatedly
    • Assuming all frozen food is safe indefinitely
    • Ignoring temperature monitoring
    • Waiting too long to use backup power

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is a chest freezer better than an upright freezer during outages?

    In many cases, yes. Chest freezers often retain cold temperatures longer.

    Can frozen food be refrozen?

    Sometimes. If food still contains ice crystals and remains at safe temperatures, refreezing may be possible.

    Should I use a thermometer?

    Yes. A freezer thermometer provides more reliable information than visual inspection alone.

    Final Thoughts

    Chest freezers are excellent at preserving food during power outages. By keeping the lid closed, monitoring temperatures, and preparing backup power options, homeowners can often protect food for extended periods.

    Related Articles

  • What Should You Do If Your Refrigerator Stops Working During a Power Outage?

    Quick Answer

    If your refrigerator stops working during a power outage, keep the door closed as much as possible, monitor food safety timelines, and prepare backup cooling solutions if the outage appears likely to continue. Acting quickly can help prevent food spoilage and reduce unnecessary waste.

    Why Refrigerator Food Safety Matters

    Refrigerators keep food at temperatures that slow bacterial growth.

    When power is lost:

    • Food temperatures begin to rise
    • Perishable items become vulnerable
    • Food safety risks increase over time

    Understanding what to do immediately can help protect both your family’s health and your grocery budget.

    Keep the Refrigerator Door Closed

    One of the most important actions is:

    Leave the refrigerator door closed.

    Every time the door is opened:

    • Cold air escapes
    • Interior temperatures rise
    • Food warms faster

    A closed refrigerator can typically keep food safe for approximately four hours.

    Check the Length of the Outage

    Determine whether:

    • The outage affects only your home
    • The outage affects your neighborhood
    • Your utility company has provided restoration estimates

    This information helps guide your next steps.

    Prioritize High-Risk Foods

    Pay special attention to:

    • Milk
    • Yogurt
    • Soft cheeses
    • Raw meat
    • Poultry
    • Seafood
    • Leftovers

    These foods spoil more quickly than shelf-stable items.

    Use Coolers if Necessary

    For longer outages:

    • Move critical food items into coolers
    • Add ice or frozen gel packs
    • Limit cooler openings

    This can help extend food preservation significantly.

    Consider Backup Power Solutions

    Many homeowners use:

    • Portable power stations
    • Generators
    • Battery backup systems

    to help power refrigerators during outages.

    Backup power can prevent food loss during extended interruptions.

    Monitor Food Temperatures

    If available, use:

    • Refrigerator thermometers
    • Wireless temperature monitors

    These tools provide more accurate guidance than visual inspection alone.

    Common Mistakes

    Avoid:

    • Opening the refrigerator repeatedly
    • Assuming food is safe indefinitely
    • Waiting too long to use coolers
    • Ignoring food safety guidelines

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long will food stay safe in a refrigerator without power?

    Typically about four hours if the door remains closed.

    Should I throw food away immediately?

    Not necessarily. Food safety depends on temperature and outage duration.

    Can portable power stations run refrigerators?

    Many portable power stations can power refrigerators, depending on appliance power requirements and battery capacity.

    Final Thoughts

    A refrigerator outage does not automatically mean food must be discarded. By keeping doors closed, monitoring conditions, and using backup cooling methods when necessary, homeowners can often preserve food safely during power interruptions.

    Related Articles

  • How to Keep Your Phone Charged During a Power Outage

    Quick Answer

    Keeping your phone charged during a power outage is important for communication, emergency alerts, weather updates, and access to critical information. The best approach is to combine battery conservation techniques with backup charging solutions such as power banks, portable power stations, and vehicle charging.

    Why Phone Power Matters During Outages

    Many households rely heavily on smartphones during emergencies.

    Phones provide access to:

    • emergency alerts
    • weather information
    • family communication
    • utility outage updates
    • navigation tools

    A dead phone can make an outage significantly more stressful.

    Charge Devices Before Severe Weather Arrives

    One of the easiest ways to prepare is to keep devices fully charged whenever severe weather is forecast.

    This includes:

    • phones
    • tablets
    • power banks
    • rechargeable flashlights

    Preparation before an outage often provides the greatest benefit.

    Use Portable Power Banks

    Portable power banks are one of the simplest backup charging solutions.

    Benefits include:

    • portability
    • affordability
    • easy storage
    • multiple device charging

    Many homeowners keep several fully charged power banks available for emergencies.

    Consider a Portable Power Station

    Portable power stations provide significantly more charging capacity than standard power banks.

    They can often charge:

    • phones
    • tablets
    • laptops
    • radios
    • Wi-Fi equipment

    for extended periods.

    Use Vehicle Charging When Necessary

    Most vehicles allow phone charging through:

    • USB ports
    • 12-volt outlets
    • USB-C charging systems

    This can provide an additional backup option during extended outages.

    Reduce Battery Consumption

    To extend phone battery life:

    • lower screen brightness
    • disable unnecessary apps
    • use battery saver mode
    • limit streaming services

    Small adjustments can dramatically extend battery runtime.

    Avoid Unnecessary Usage

    During prolonged outages, reserve phone usage for:

    • communication
    • emergency information
    • important updates

    Avoid unnecessary battery-intensive activities whenever possible.

    Common Mistakes

    • waiting until the outage begins to charge devices
    • forgetting backup chargers
    • leaving battery-draining apps active
    • failing to maintain power banks

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long will a phone battery last during an outage?

    Battery life depends on usage, settings, and device condition.

    Are power banks worth having?

    Yes. They are one of the most affordable and effective outage-preparedness tools.

    Can portable power stations charge phones?

    Absolutely. Most models are excellent phone-charging solutions.

    Final Thoughts

    Keeping your phone charged during a power outage improves communication, safety, and emergency preparedness. Combining battery conservation with backup charging solutions helps households remain connected during unexpected outages.

    Related Articles

  • What Should You Do During the First Hour of a Power Outage?

    Quick Answer

    The first hour of a power outage is critical for protecting food, preserving battery life, ensuring household safety, and preparing for a potentially extended outage. Taking a few simple steps immediately after losing power can significantly reduce disruption and improve comfort.

    Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

    When the power goes out, take a moment to determine whether the outage is limited to your home or affecting the surrounding area.

    Check:

    • neighboring homes
    • streetlights
    • utility notifications
    • outage maps

    This can help determine the scope of the outage and provide an estimate for restoration.

    Protect Refrigerated and Frozen Food

    One of the first priorities should be preserving food.

    During the first hour:

    • keep refrigerator doors closed
    • keep freezer doors closed
    • avoid unnecessary access

    A refrigerator can typically keep food safe for about four hours if unopened, while a full freezer may stay cold for up to 48 hours.

    Gather Essential Lighting

    Locate:

    • flashlights
    • battery lanterns
    • rechargeable lights
    • portable power stations

    Avoid relying heavily on candles whenever possible due to fire risks.

    Check Critical Medical Equipment

    Households that rely on:

    • CPAP machines
    • oxygen concentrators
    • refrigerated medications
    • mobility equipment

    should immediately evaluate backup power needs.

    If necessary, begin conserving battery capacity.

    Charge Essential Devices

    If backup power is available, prioritize charging:

    • smartphones
    • tablets
    • battery banks
    • radios

    Maintaining communication is one of the most important outage priorities.

    Verify Backup Power Resources

    If you own:

    • portable power stations
    • generators
    • battery backup systems

    verify:

    • charge levels
    • fuel availability
    • operating status

    This helps avoid surprises if the outage continues for several hours.

    Monitor Weather Conditions

    Many outages are associated with:

    • storms
    • high winds
    • extreme temperatures

    Stay informed through:

    • weather radios
    • local news
    • mobile alerts

    Conserve Power Early

    Avoid unnecessary battery use.

    Reducing power consumption during the first hour can dramatically extend backup runtime if the outage becomes prolonged.

    Common Mistakes

    • opening refrigerators repeatedly
    • wasting battery power
    • ignoring weather conditions
    • waiting too long to prepare

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Should I call the utility company immediately?

    Check the utility outage map first. Many outages are already reported automatically.

    Should I unplug appliances?

    Sensitive electronics may benefit from surge protection or temporary unplugging during unstable power conditions.

    How long should I expect an outage to last?

    Duration depends on the cause and local utility response efforts.

    Final Thoughts

    The first hour of a power outage often determines how smoothly the rest of the event will unfold. Acting quickly to preserve food, conserve power, and prepare for changing conditions can help households remain safe and comfortable.

    Related Articles

  • How Long Can Food Stay Safe During a Power Outage?

    Quick Answer

    Food can remain safe during a power outage for a limited period, depending on whether it is stored in a refrigerator or freezer and how often doors are opened. In general, a refrigerator can keep food safe for about four hours if the door remains closed, while a full freezer can maintain safe temperatures for approximately 48 hours.

    Why Food Safety Matters During Outages

    Power outages can quickly affect food safety.

    Without refrigeration:

    • bacteria can multiply rapidly
    • food may spoil unexpectedly
    • foodborne illness risks increase

    Understanding food safety guidelines helps homeowners protect both their health and their grocery budget.

    Refrigerator Food Safety Guidelines

    A refrigerator will generally keep food at safe temperatures for:

    • up to 4 hours if unopened

    After that point, temperatures may rise above recommended food safety levels.

    Items that should be evaluated carefully include:

    • meat
    • poultry
    • seafood
    • dairy products
    • leftovers

    When in doubt, it is usually safest to discard questionable foods.

    Freezer Food Safety Guidelines

    A freezer retains cold temperatures much longer.

    Approximate timelines:

    • Full freezer → up to 48 hours
    • Half-full freezer → about 24 hours

    Keeping the freezer door closed is critical for preserving frozen foods.

    Foods That Spoil Quickly

    Certain foods become unsafe faster than others.

    Examples include:

    • milk
    • soft cheeses
    • yogurt
    • cooked meats
    • deli products
    • leftovers

    These foods should be monitored closely after prolonged outages.

    Foods That Last Longer

    Some foods remain safe longer due to their composition.

    Examples include:

    • hard cheeses
    • butter
    • condiments
    • unopened beverages

    However, temperatures should still be monitored whenever possible.

    Using Coolers During Extended Outages

    For longer outages:

    • transfer critical foods to coolers
    • use ice or ice packs
    • limit cooler openings

    This can significantly extend food preservation time.

    Consider Backup Power Solutions

    Many homeowners use:

    • portable power stations
    • generators
    • battery backup systems

    to keep refrigerators operating during outages.

    Backup power can reduce food loss and improve household resilience.

    Common Mistakes

    • opening refrigerator doors too frequently
    • assuming food is safe indefinitely
    • ignoring temperature concerns
    • waiting too long to move food to coolers

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does refrigerated food stay safe?

    Typically about four hours if the refrigerator remains closed.

    How long does a freezer stay cold?

    A full freezer may stay cold for up to 48 hours if unopened.

    Is it safe to refreeze partially thawed food?

    Sometimes, depending on temperature and ice crystal presence. Food safety guidelines should be followed carefully.

    Final Thoughts

    Knowing how long food remains safe during a power outage helps homeowners reduce waste, avoid illness, and make better emergency preparedness decisions.

    Proper planning and backup power solutions can significantly improve food preservation during outages.

    Related Articles

  • What Should Be in a Home Emergency Power Outage Kit?

    Quick Answer

    A home emergency power outage kit should include backup lighting, charging solutions, emergency food and water, batteries, communication tools, and basic safety supplies to help households remain safe and comfortable during outages.

    Why Emergency Kits Matter

    Power outages can:

    • disrupt communications
    • limit access to supplies
    • impact refrigeration
    • create safety risks

    👉 A well-prepared emergency kit helps households respond more effectively.

    Backup Lighting

    Reliable lighting is one of the most important outage priorities.

    Good options include:

    • LED flashlights
    • battery lanterns
    • rechargeable lights
    • portable power stations

    👉 Avoid relying heavily on candles whenever possible.

    Portable Power and Charging

    Backup charging equipment may include:

    • portable power stations
    • phone charging banks
    • extra charging cables
    • solar chargers

    Maintaining communication during outages is extremely important.

    Food and Water Supplies

    Emergency kits should include:

    • bottled water
    • shelf-stable foods
    • manual can openers
    • basic meal supplies

    👉 Households should prepare for multi-day outages when possible.

    Medical and Personal Supplies

    Important items may include:

    • medications
    • first-aid kits
    • medical equipment batteries
    • hygiene supplies

    Communication Equipment

    Useful emergency communication tools include:

    • battery radios
    • weather radios
    • mobile hotspots
    • backup batteries

    Temperature and Comfort Items

    Depending on climate conditions:

    • blankets
    • fans
    • warm clothing
    • cooling supplies

    may become important during outages.

    Important Documents

    Emergency kits should also include:

    • printed emergency contacts
    • insurance information
    • medical information
    • backup cash

    Common Mistakes

    • waiting until storms arrive
    • forgetting charging equipment
    • lacking backup lighting
    • underestimating outage duration

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much water should emergency kits include?

    Many emergency agencies recommend at least several days of water per person.

    Are portable power stations useful in emergency kits?

    Yes, especially for communications and essential electronics.

    Should emergency kits be updated regularly?

    Yes, batteries, food, and medications should be checked periodically.

    Final Thoughts

    A well-prepared emergency power outage kit helps improve household safety, resilience, and comfort during unexpected outages and severe weather emergencies.

    Related Articles

  • What Appliances Should You Prioritize During a Power Outage?

    Quick Answer

    During a power outage, homeowners should prioritize appliances and devices that support safety, food preservation, communication, medical needs, and basic comfort. Proper prioritization helps extend backup power runtime and reduce unnecessary energy usage.

    Why Appliance Prioritization Matters

    Backup power is often limited during outages.

    Whether using:

    • portable power stations
    • generators
    • battery backups

    👉 prioritizing the right appliances helps maximize available power.

    Refrigerators and Freezers

    Food preservation should usually be:

    one of the highest priorities

    because outages can quickly lead to:

    • spoiled food
    • wasted groceries
    • unsafe temperatures

    👉 Refrigerators are among the most important backup appliances.

    Medical Devices

    Households with:

    • CPAP machines
    • oxygen equipment
    • refrigerated medications
    • mobility equipment

    should prioritize these systems immediately.

    Phones and Communication Devices

    Maintaining communication is critical during emergencies.

    Important devices include:

    • smartphones
    • charging banks
    • radios
    • laptops
    • internet equipment

    Internet Equipment

    Many homeowners now rely on:

    • Wi-Fi routers
    • modems
    • mobile hotspots

    for:

    • work
    • emergency alerts
    • communication

    👉 Internet access has become increasingly important during outages.

    Lighting

    LED lighting should be prioritized because:

    • it uses very little power
    • dramatically improves safety
    • extends backup runtime

    Heating and Cooling Priorities

    Portable heaters and air conditioners often consume:

    very large amounts of electricity

    and may quickly drain smaller backup systems.

    Fans are usually much more efficient.

    Kitchen Appliances

    High-power kitchen devices may require significant energy.

    Examples include:

    • microwaves
    • coffee makers
    • electric kettles
    • toasters

    👉 Use these selectively during outages.

    Entertainment Devices

    Televisions and gaming systems are usually:

    • lower priority
    • optional loads

    unless being used for:

    • emergency information
    • weather alerts

    Common Mistakes

    • running unnecessary appliances
    • overloading backup systems
    • underestimating power consumption
    • failing to plan ahead

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What appliance should be prioritized first?

    Refrigerators and medical devices are usually top priorities.

    Are LED lights good during outages?

    Yes, they are extremely energy efficient.

    Should internet equipment be prioritized?

    In many households, yes.

    Final Thoughts

    Prioritizing essential appliances during a power outage helps improve safety, preserve food, maintain communication, and maximize backup power runtime during emergencies.

    Related Articles

  • How to Prepare for a Power Outage Before Storm Season

    Quick Answer

    Preparing for power outages before storm season helps reduce stress, improve safety, and protect essential household systems during emergencies. Early preparation gives homeowners more flexibility when severe weather arrives.

    Why Storm Season Preparation Matters

    Storm-related outages may:

    • last for hours or days
    • disrupt communications
    • impact refrigeration and medical devices
    • limit access to fuel and supplies

    👉 Early preparation improves resilience.

    Build an Emergency Power Plan

    Every household should identify:

    • essential devices
    • backup lighting needs
    • food storage priorities
    • communication methods

    👉 Planning ahead prevents last-minute scrambling.

    Test Backup Power Equipment

    Before storm season:

    test all backup systems

    including:

    • portable power stations
    • generators
    • flashlights
    • battery backups

    Prepare Emergency Supplies

    Important supplies may include:

    • bottled water
    • shelf-stable food
    • medications
    • batteries
    • phone chargers

    Charge Backup Batteries Early

    Do not wait until:

    the storm is approaching

    to recharge:

    • portable power stations
    • phones
    • laptops
    • battery packs

    Protect Refrigerated Food

    Plan ahead for:

    • refrigerator use
    • cooler preparation
    • ice availability

    👉 Food spoilage becomes a major issue during long outages.

    Prepare for Communication Interruptions

    Power outages may affect:

    • internet access
    • mobile charging
    • local communication systems

    Backup charging solutions become very important.

    Common Mistakes

    • waiting too long to prepare
    • forgetting fuel or battery charging
    • not testing backup equipment
    • underestimating outage duration

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When should storm preparation begin?

    Ideally before peak storm season starts.

    Are portable power stations useful during storms?

    Yes, especially for electronics, lighting, and communications.

    Should backup systems be tested regularly?

    Yes, routine testing improves reliability.

    Final Thoughts

    Preparing before storm season greatly improves household resilience and helps reduce disruption during power outages and severe weather emergencies.

    Related Articles