Power Generators Bring Some Risks

Significant weather events in the last few years have often led to lengthy power outages. So it’s no surprise that the number of households purchasing portable generators is on the increase.

A generator can be extremely useful when temporary power is needed, especially during cleanup and recovery efforts. However, if not used properly, generators can also be hazardous.

Here are three main hazards to be aware of and 10 tips to help you avoid mishaps.

Keep Your Distance from Carbon Monoxide

• Generators produce significant amounts of carbon monoxide. Never use your generator inside your home, garage, crawl space, or other enclosed areas – even if you have ventilation.
• Only use generators outdoors, a good distance away from doors, windows and vents.
• Install a battery-powered carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your home, near the area where you’re running a generator.

Electrical Precautions

• Due to the high voltage generated, it’s important to keep the generator dry. The outdoor space you where you operate your generator should have a dry surface and be under an open, canopy like structure to protect it from rain and snow.
• Plug appliances that are being powered by the generator into the generator using heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords. These cords should be free of cuts or tears and have all three prongs in good condition.
• Never plug your generator into your home outlet. This practice, known as backfeeding, can cause an electrocution risk to utility workers who may be working on the same utility transformer that powers your home.
• If it’s necessary to connect your generator to your house wiring, have a qualified electrician install an appropriate power transfer switch.

Watch for Fire Hazards

• Never operate the generator near combustible materials.
• When running, generators become very hot. Before refueling, turn off the generator and give it plenty of time to cool.
• Store extra fuel away from the generator and any other fuel burning appliance (for example a natural gas water heater in the garage).

For additional safety information, always read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your particular generator.