Public Education

Exercise Caution When Using Portable Generators

Running a generator in a storm-devastated area or during power outages is a safe way to power and light a home--but only if you apply a healthy dose of common sense and follow the generator manufacturer's instructions.

Even with safety in mind, generating your own power is not without its risks.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You can't see or smell it. A generator's exhaust contains poisonous CO, which can kill you in a matter of minutes.

For your safety, follow these important generator safety tips:

• Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage, shed, carport or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open.
• Place portable generators outside only, at least 10 feet away from the home with the exhaust pointing away from the home.  And keep the generator away from openings to the home, including doors, windows and vents.
• It's best to place the generator downwind of the house, although you need to be mindful of your neighbors home.
• Read the label on the generator and the owner's manual, and follow the instructions.
• Install CO alarms with battery backup in the home outside each sleeping area.
• Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death.

According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a typical 5.5-kilowatt home generator can produce the same amount of CO as six idling cars.

Regardless of whether you run a generator, every home should have a working CO detector.

Other Tips:

To prevent electrical shock, support the generator cords off the ground or relocate them rather than allowing them to lay in puddles. Likewise, replace any cord with damaged insulation.

Do not store fuel in the house, and do not fuel the generator while running. Instead, shut the engine off, let it cool then refuel it. While inconvenient, this is far safer than fueling a generator adjacent to its red-hot muffler, especially if you spill a little gasoline (not uncommon, especially at night). Clean up any spilled gas before restarting the generator.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding home fire safety, please call the Rochester Hills Fire Department Fire Prevention Division at 248-656-4717.