Portable Generator Safety

Severe storms like the one experienced this weekend can leave many without power for extended periods of time.  Portable generators provide you with hydro during these emergencies, but generator safety needs to be undertaken to protect yourselves and your property.

Portable generators should never be used indoors or enclosed spaces such as a garage, crawl space or basement as it will cause a build-up of fatal fumes.  Fans and open windows/doors do not provide enough fresh air to keep you and your family safe.  A generator should be 3 to 4 feet clear of anything combustible such as structures, deck, porches, or waste bins to prevent fire. Always follow the manufacturers instructions.

Portable generators should never be connected directly to electrical appliances or wiring components that have been affected or damaged by water.

When plugging an extension cord into your generator make sure the cord is grounded type with three prongs. Uncoil your extension cord and lay flat as coiled cords can cause fires.

Read the instructions for your generator prior to adding gasoline as the vapors can be extremely flammable.   Allow the generator engine to cool at least 2 minutes before refueling and always use fresh gasoline.

Visit Electrical Safety Authority's Generator Safety Guidelines to learn more about generator safety.