Generator Safety Tips

It is important to review generator safety measures to prevent further disasters. While generators can save lives after storms by powering medical equipment and other devices, there are also several potential hazards from generator misuse including carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrocution, fire, and toxic engine exhaust.  

It is extremely important to follow the directions supplied with the generator. For fixed, installed generators, be sure to hire a licensed electrician to complete the work. The electrician will connect to your house wiring using a transfer switch to prevent your generator from back-feeding utility lines and causing possible damage to your generator when power is restored.

Generators should be kept dry and not used in rainy conditions. They should be set up away from all open windows, doors, or vents, including neighbors’ windows, and be at least 20 feet from the house.

 Some reminders for portable, gasoline-powered generators: 

Connect appliances directly to it, rather than wiring the generator directly to your breaker or fuse box

Turn off all connected appliances before starting your generator

Never exceed a generator’s rated wattage

Turn off the generator and let it cool down before refueling

Ensure you have plenty of gas for operation stored safely in gas containers

Don’t leave a running generator unattended; turn it off at night and when away from home

Check that the heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord is free of cuts and tears and that the plug has three prongs, especially a grounding pin

Install CO alarms throughout your home to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide

Newer generator models may feature a built-in sensor that triggers automatic shut-off if CO builds up to a dangerous level in an enclosed space.  

Additional resources: 

Generator safety video from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and FEMA which includes American Sign Language: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOeVVUQ0eZw

Occupational Safety and Health Administration information about how to use portable generators safely at  https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3286.pdf 

CDC carbon monoxide video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZp5jAg4-PMor call 800-232-4636.