Thinking about getting a generator after recent power outages? Check out these safety tips

Nicholas Sorensen, Erie Times-News
·2 min read

When the weather outside gets frightful there is always a good chance of a power outage occurring.

To avoid being powerless and without heat during severe storms, many people often turn to a generator.

It is wise to know how to operate a generator during a power outage to keep your loved ones safe.

Where to put your generator

Generators are for outdoor use only and are to be kept away from any physical structures. The National Weather Service suggests keeping a generator a minimum of 20 feet away from entrances, including doors and windows, to prevent exhaust from entering the home.

Make sure that the generator is also properly grounded so that you can avoid shocks and electrocution.

Generator tips and no no’s

Organizations such as Redcross.org and the Federal Emergency Management Agency provide great safety tips for using a generator during a power outage. Here are some of those tips:

  • Generators should never be plugged into a wall outlet or main electrical panel to power a house.

  • Make sure that the generator is functioning properly, in good shape and has fresh fuel.

  • Be sure to perform routine inspections when the generator is not needed. This will prepare the generator for any sudden emergencies.

  • Before refueling the generator make sure that it is turned off and has had time to cool down. Fueling a warm or hot generator could cause ignition.

  • The generator should also be kept dry during operation positioned on a dry surface.

  • Improper use of a generator can lead to dangers including but not limited to fires, electrocution and carbon monoxide poisoning.

  • House owners should also install carbon monoxide alarms due to the amount of carbon monoxide that a generator could potentially emit depending on the generators power capacity.

More: High levels of deadly radon gas found in one-quarter of Erie County homes. Get your home tested.

Contact Nicholas Sorensen at Nsorensen@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Erie PA severe weather power outages: How to properly use a generator