Understanding how to use a portable generator safely is crucial to preventing injuries and property damage in the event of a power outage. Owning a portable generator allows you to keep your electrical appliances and devices powered for the duration of the outage, but when it comes to operating it, incorrect use can result in serious injuries and costly property damage. Use the following tips to protect yourself against the risks involved with operating portable generators.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Powered by gasoline, diesel fuel, or kerosene, portable generators operate using internal combustion engines. These engines produce exhaust in the same manner as an automotive engine, and the exhaust contains a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas called carbon monoxide (CO). For this reason, it is imperative that you never run a portable generator indoors. Keep the following tips in mind to protect yourself against CO poisoning:
- Leave at least three feet of open space around your generator to ensure that the exhaust output is not blocked and that adequate ventilation is maintained.
- Do not operate your portable generator near windows, doors, or air intakes where the exhaust may drift into your home, vehicle, or other enclosed space.
- If you feel the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as a dull headache, feeling of weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision, or loss of consciousness, move to fresh air immediately and seek medical attention.
Shock and Electrocution
Portable generators produce electrical current that can cause serious injury or fatality if certain safety precautions are not taken. Use the following tips to reduce the risk of shock and electrocution:
- Ensure that your generator is grounded before each use.
- Never plug the generator into a wall outlet or connect it to your home’s electrical system. This is called back feeding and creates an extreme risk of electrocution.
- Never start or stop your generator when electrical loads are connected.
- Plug your appliances directly into the generator. If you need to use an extension cord, make certain that it is grounded and in like-new condition. It is imperative that your extension cord meets or exceeds the amperage limits outlined in your owner’s manual.
- Never overload a generator. Prioritize your appliances and only power the necessities. Added stress on your generator causes overheating, creating a serious fire hazard. Adhere to the limits specified in your owner’s manual.
- Always keep your generator dry. If you must use your generator in a wet environment, it is crucial to keep it covered with a barrier such as a quality tarp or waterproof canopy. Never operate a generator if you or it is wet.
Fire Hazards
There is a significant risk of fire related to the unsafe operation of a portable generator. Portable generators become extremely hot while operation and will remain hot even after you shut them off.
- Before refueling, shut down your generator and allow it to cool sufficiently. It is extremely dangerous to attempt to refuel a hot or running generator.
- Do not store fuel near your generator or other flammable objects.
- Only transport and store fuel in approved containers designed for this purpose. In many states, it is illegal to store gasoline or other fuels in unapproved containers.
Understanding how to use a portable generator safely will allow you to endure a power outage without a significant inconvenience or risk to your life or property. The following video from Central Insurance Companies, one of our insurance company partners, expands on the topic of using portable generators safely:
At Eaton & Berube, the safety of your family, home, and meaningful assets is our priority. For additional safety tips and useful resources, please subscribe to our blog or contact us.