When significant weather events happen, like the recent ice storm that hit portions of Missouri, power outages are common. As a result, many homeowners rely on portable generators for electricity.
When used properly, these convenient devices are usually a safe and reliable means of providing emergency power. However, portable generators also come with potential hazards that homeowners should take into account.
For example, owners should be aware that portable generators produce carbon monoxide, a deadly colorless and odorless gas.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide inhalation include nausea, headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, irritability, confusion and memory loss. Residents should ensure they have a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector installed in their homes.
Here are some additional facts and tips from the Fort Leonard Wood Fire Prevention Office that portable-generator owners should take into account to keep themselves and their Families safe:
While using a portable generator during power loss:
-- Never run a generator inside of a residence.
-- Do not run the generator inside a garage, near the residence or near air conditioner intakes. The carbon monoxide can still enter the house.
-- Use heavy-gauge extension cords to run power from the generator to appliances.
-- If you must run an extension cord from the generator into the house through an open doorway or window, do not slam the door or window shut on the extension cord. That could result in a short and cause a fire.
Leave just enough space in the door or window to run the cord then seal the opening by using duct tape.
-- Check the taped seal frequently for leaks to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
-- Do not connect a generator directly to a household electrical system because it can backfeed electrical current into power lines. If this is done, utility workers will be unaware that power is running through a line, and they could be electrocuted or injured.
-- Store fuel in a container designated for gasoline or diesel.
Do not use discarded milk jugs, glass bottles or other containers to store fuel.
-- Store generator fuel away from the generator, and refuel only after the generator has cooled. Use a funnel to prevent spills.
-- To prevent creating a dangerous spark when refueling, ensure the fuel can is placed on the ground. Do not refill when the container is in or on a vehicle.
-- Allow a generator to run for two to three minutes before plugging in a power cord.
-- Turn off appliances before shutting off a generator, to prevent damage to electrical circuits.
-- Consult the generator owner's manual to determine its power capacity.
Choose a generator that produces more power than you will need when all electrical appliances are running.
-- Most generators are not strong enough to power an entire house, so you must ration its use to prevent tripping a circuit breaker on the generator.
-- Each electrical device uses a maximum number of watts. That number usually is found on a manufacturer's label on the appliance. For example, a 5,000-watt generator can run an average refrigerator, freezer, portable fan and a 60-watt light bulb.
-- Always operate a generator in a clean, dry location.
A generator produces enough electricity to electrocute you, so do not run a generator in standing water.
-- Voltage-sensitive appliances, such as televisions and computers, should not be powered by a generator without some type of surge-protection device.
For additional information concerning generator safety, check out the web page: members.rennlist.org/warren/generator.html or contact the Fort Leonard Wood Fire Prevention Office at 573.596.0131, ext. 60886 for additional fire-safety information.
(Editor's note: Information provided by the Fort Leonard Wood Fire Safety Office.)
Related Links:
Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood Facebook
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