Portable Generator Safety

Portable generators can keep the necessary electrical appliances running in a home during an outage, but they also must be handled properly for maximum safety.

No matter which type of portable generator you choose, proper handling and familiarity with your particular model are essential to your own safety and that of your home.

Portable generators can be hazardous to use and many accidents occur each year due to careless or improper handling.

Fuel type is part of the equation when running or storing a generator. Gasoline is the most flammable while diesel is the safest. Propane is somewhere in the middle. Gasoline does not last as long as diesel and propane. Never use stale gasoline in a generator. Keep any fuel container separated from the generator and always make sure containers are sealed properly. Even fumes can travel and ignite. Do not refuel a generator while it is running; it must cool down first.

Location is critical for safe generator operation. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the leading cause of accidents and death in the use of generators. Never place a generator inside a home or enclosed space. It must, however, be protected from the elements and situated on a level surface. Allow for at least four feet of space around all sides and the top during operation. If you use a backup generator frequently, you should install a CO alarm.

Place the generator away from any point of entry into a home, including windows, doors, and vents. Carbon monoxide can build to toxic levels even when doors and windows are open.

Appliances should be plugged directly into the generator. If running a cord from inside the house, use a heavy-duty outdoor model and purchase an appropriate surge protection. Never plug a generator directly into any home outlet - outside or inside. This can cause dangerous "backfeeds" into electrical wiring that can erupt where repairmen are working and can also damage the generator.

Ultimately, you should choose a generator that meets your minimum power needs during an emergency. Even then, generators can become overloaded as appliances power up.

Maintain your generator per the manufacturer's instructions. Read the manual before using the generator for the first time and refer to it occasionally as a refresher for ongoing maintenance.