HURRICANE: Generator Safety

Generator Safety

Read and follow all the manufacturer’s guidelines when using a generator to avoid dangerous shortcuts and ensure safe operation.
DO NOT directly connect your generator to your home’s breaker or fuse box. Power from a generator connected to a home’s wiring will “back feed” into utility lines – which can severely injure or kill a neighbor or utility crew working to restore power.
DO NOT run generators inside your home or garage, as they produce potentially deadly carbon monoxide fumes.
Keep generators away from all open windows, including neighbors’ windows, to prevent the fumes from entering a home or business.
Buy a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm, which will alert you if carbon monoxide levels become dangerous.
Turn off all connected appliances before starting your generator.
Turn connected appliances on one at a time, never exceeding the generator’s rated wattage.
DO NOT touch a generator if you are wet, standing in water or on damp ground.
NEVER refuel a hot generator or one that is running – hot engine parts or exhaust can ignite gasoline.
Ensure you have plenty of gas safely stored in gas containers to operate your generator.