Power, Generator, and Electricity Safety

Power and Generator Safety

Power and Generator Safety Call the utility company only if your home is the only one without power Cook on gas/charcoal grills or stoves outdoors only Use canned heat indoors only if there are no gas leaks Turn off lights and appliances during outages to prevent surges Do not disconnect electrical equipment during a storm Use flashlights instead of candles or lanterns Operate generators outdoors at least 20 feet from buildings Never use generators in garages or enclosed spaces Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords Never plug generators directly into wall outlets (prevents back feeding) Key Generator Safety Rules NEVER operate a generator inside your home, garage, basement, or shed, even if doors or windows are open. Place the generator at least twenty (20) feet from the house, with exhaust pointed away from living spaces. Install battery-operated CO alarms inside your home. If you feel dizzy or weak, get to fresh air immediately. Preventing Electrocution Keep the generator dry and avoid operating in rain. Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). NEVER plug a generator into a wall outlet ("back feeding"). Use a professionally installed transfer switch to power your home. Preventing Fire and Burns Turn off the generator and let it cool down for several minutes before refueling. Store fuel in approved containers outside of living areas. Do not overload the generator; keep connected loads within the manufacturer's rated capacity. Inspect extension cords for damage; use only grounded, 3-prong cords.