Generator Safety

generator
During a power outage, a generator can be very useful when it comes to generating your own electricity. However, a generator must be used correctly or it can pose a number of safety hazards. The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire or burns. 

If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY and call 9-1-1. DO NOT DELAY. The carbon monoxide from generators can kill fast.

Follow these safety tips for safe generator use:

  • NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds, or similar areas, even when using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can quickly build up in these areas and can linger for hours, even after the generator has shut off.
  • Always follow the instructions that come with your generator. Locate the unit outdoors and far from doors, windows, and vents that could allow CO to come indoors.
  • Install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with battery back-up in your home, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. CO alarms should be certified to the requirements of the latest safety standards (UL 2034, IAS 6-96, or CSA 6.19.01). Test batteries monthly. 
  • Generators pose a risk of shock and electrocution, especially if they are operated in wet conditions. If you must use a generator when it is wet outside, protect the generator from moisture to help avoid the shock/electrocution hazard, but do so without operating the generator indoors or near openings to any building that can be occupied in order to help avoid the CO hazard. Operate the generator under an open, canopy-like structure on a dry surface where water cannot reach it or puddle or drain under it. Dry your hands, if wet, before touching the generator.
  • Never refuel a gas-powered generator while it is running. Turn it off and let it cool because gasoline spilled on hot engine parts can start a fire. Also store extra gasoline properly - not near any potential sources of heat or fire, or inside the house - and in an ANSI-approved container in a cool, well-ventilated place.
  • Connect appliances to the generator using heavy-duty extension cords that are specifically designed for outdoor use. Make sure the wattage rating for each cord exceeds the total wattage of all appliances connected to it.
  • Use extension cords that are long enough to allow the generator to be placed outdoors and far away from windows, doors and vents to the home or to other structures that could be occupied. Check that the entire length of each cord is free of cuts or tears and that the plug has all three prongs. Protect the cord from getting pinched or crushed if it passes through a window or doorway.
  • NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as “back-feeding.” This is extremely dangerous and presents an electrocution risk to utility workers and neighbors served by the same utility transformer. It also bypasses some of the built-in household circuit protection devices.

The safest way to transfer power from a generator to your home is to install a transfer switch that will allow you to connect a generator to your home without extension cords. Always use a qualified and licensed electrician when installing electrical control components directly to your home.

For more information, please read these resources: