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Generator safety: CO prevention and operation

Portable generators provide backup power during severe storms and grid outages. However, improper generator placement is a leading cause of fatal carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Do this now

  1. NEVER run a generator indoors, in a garage, basement, crawlspace, or near open windows.
  2. Always position the generator outdoors at least 6 meters (20 feet) away from any home windows, doors, and air vents.
  3. Direct generator exhaust pointing away from your home and neighboring houses.
  4. Install battery-operated Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home.
  5. Turn off the generator and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before refueling.

The deadly danger of Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Generator exhaust contains high concentrations of Carbon Monoxide, an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that kills in minutes.

  • Running a generator inside a closed or open garage will fill a home with lethal CO gas rapidly.
  • Opening garage doors or windows does NOT provide enough ventilation to prevent CO poisoning.

Safe electrical connections

  • Use heavy-duty outdoor extension cords: Plug appliances directly into the generator using grounded, outdoor-rated 3-prong extension cords of adequate gauge.
  • Never "backfeed" electricity into wall outlets: Plugging a generator directly into a home wall outlet bypasses circuit breakers and energizes utility power lines outside, creating fatal electrocution risks for utility line workers.
  • Use a certified Transfer Switch: Have a licensed electrician install a manual transfer switch to connect a generator safely to your home breaker panel.

Refueling safety rules

  • Gasoline spilled onto a hot generator engine or muffler can ignite instantly, causing severe burns and structure fires.
  • Always turn off the generator and wait 15 to 20 minutes for the engine to cool down before pouring fuel.
  • Store gasoline outdoors in approved safety cans away from living areas and heat sources.

... note "Generator safety standards" National safety councils (such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission) mandate operating generators exclusively outdoors at least 6 meters (20 feet) away from living spaces.