Generator Safety Tips

Safety should be a top concern when operating a portable generator. Check out our Generator Safety Tips to learn the preventative measures you should take.

• Use Your Generator Outdoors Only - Keep away from open windows,vents or doors. Never use your generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or enclosed areas.
• Operating Manual and Instructions - Always read and follow the manufacturer’s operating manual and instructions before running generator.
• Carbon Monoxide Detector - Use a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector when running your generator.
• Fresh Gasoline - Use fresh gas in your generator. If you do not plan to use your generator in 30 days, stabilize the gas with fuel stabilizer.
• Combustible Materials - DO NOT operate the generator near combustible materials.
• Coiled Extension Cords - Coiled cords can get HOT, always uncoil cords and lay them in flat open locations.
• Home Outlet - Never plug your generator directly into your home outlet.
• Generator Fumes - Fumes that can kill can build up when used in enclosed areas. Fan and open doors or windows do NOT provide enough fresh air.
• Carbon Monoxide - Engines emit carbon monoxide. DO NOT run generator in enclosed area.
• Refueling - Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable, allow engine to cool at least 2 minutes before refueling.
• Maintenance Schedule - Maintain your generator according to the maintenance schedule for peak performance and safety.
• Proper Extension Cords - When using extension cords, be sure they are of the grounded type and are rated for the application.
• Power Transfer Switch - If connecting a generator into your home's electrical system, have a qualified electrician install a Power Transfer Switch.
• Wet Conditions - Protect your generator from exposure to rain/snow. Generators produce powerful voltage; DO NOT operate under wet conditions.