Generator Safety

Be cautious if you use a portable generator. Tropical storms can bring lightning and strong winds that can cause power outages. As a backup source of power, a small generator can come in handy, if used carefully.

Before using a portable generator, be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Take precautions to avoid poisoning from the generator's toxic exhaust and to prevent electric shock, electrocution, and fire.

• Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a poison you cannot see or smell. That's why you should never use a generator inside a home, basement, or garage. Only use the generator outside, away from your home's windows, doors, and vents.
• Never plug a portable generator's power into a household outlet because the electricity can backflow into utility lines, creating a safety hazard for utility staff working on them.*
• Protect the generator from moisture and set it on a dry surface where water cannot reach it or puddle under it. Make sure your hands are dry before touching the generator.
• Always start or stop a generator when no electric appliances, tools, or lights are connected to it.
• Connect appliances to the generator using a heavy-duty extension cord that is designed for outdoor use. Check the cord to be sure it's free from cuts or tears and protect it from getting pinched if it passes through a window or doorway.
• Check the combined wattage of all the appliances you plan to power with the generator. Make sure the combined wattage of the appliances does not exceed the generator's capacity or the capacity of the extension cord they are plugged into.
• Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool down. Never overfill the fuel tank and clean off any spilled gasoline.
• Store reserve fuel outside your home's living areas and away from any fuel-burning appliance.

*An auxiliary power generation system may only be safely connected to the house wiring using an approved power transfer switch. The transfer switch must be installed by a qualified electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code and applicable state and local electrical codes. For information and to submit electrical plans for our review, please contact us at one of the following: