Generator Safety

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

Generators can be very helpful to have on hand in the event of a power outage during severe weather. Follow these steps from the American Red Cross to ensure safe handling of your generator:

• To avoid electrocution, keep your generator dry and do not use in wet conditions (i.e. a flood). Have it running on a dry, flat surface under a shelter such as a canopy-like structure (i.e. a tarp supported by poles). Do not touch the generator if your hands are wet.

• Never run a generator inside your home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. The same goes for grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices.

• Using fans or opening your doors and windows won’t prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in your home. CO can’t be smelled or seen so it is critical when running a generator to use caution to prevent exposure. If you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.

• Install CO alarms on every level in your home in central locations and outside sleeping areas. These will provide early warnings of rising CO levels.