Portable Generator Safety Tips

Portable generators are critical to have in emergencies or for use in areas where there is no traditional electricity. Always keep in mind there are safety issues related to the proper use of the generators. First is electric shock, second is carbon monoxide poisoning, and last is the danger of fire.

Portable generators can cause electrocution if they are left in the rain or sitting in water. Keep the generator under a canopy where it is protected, but not totally enclosed. It must still have adequate ventillation. Never touch the generator when you are standing in water or your hands are wet. Never run extension cords through water of any kind. Keep all unauthorized people away from the unit while it is operating.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is given off in the generator's exhaust. That is why a generator should never be used indoors or in any encloed space where exhaust can accumulate. Flowing air ventillation is recommended which will take exhaust away from any living area. If you ever start to feel dizzy or sick, shut the portabel generator off immediately and move to fresh air.

Fires can be caused with portable generators in two ways. Fuel should never be stored indoors and always in properly marked containers. It should also not be stored in any room where there is a gas water heater since fumes can be ignited along the ground if any fuel is spilled. And a generator must be allowed to cool completely down before refueling, since any fuel spilled on a hot engine will ignite.

Make sure all extension cords are of high enough rating for whatever load they are to carry. Also check for fraying, exposed wires or areas where the cord may be underneath something else and is hard to see. Many people will put cords under rugs or furniture, but this can harm the cord and hide any defects in the cord.

Check cords when the portable generator is operating to make sure they are not overheating. Overheating is an indication of too much load for the cord or else damaged wires inside the cord. Even though the cords may be rated for the load you have, if compressors are turning on and off, the load may be temporarily increasing beyond the rating.

Portable generators can be a life-saver if you are careful and watch for these safety issues.

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About the author

Gail Metcalf provides portable generator information on her Home Improvement website.

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