Generator Safety Tips

Choosing the right generator is the first step in generator safety. Here are a few easy ways to figure out which size generator is best for you, provided by Red Cross.

  1. Add up the power requirements of the appliances and devices you will want to use.
  2. Add up the wattage of all the light bulbs you will want to use.
  3. Find the total amps you need by dividing watts by volts.
  4. Choose a generator that produces more amps than you need. Some devices draw up to 3 times as much power when starting up, and others lose efficiency over times.

Another thing to remember when using a generator is that there are many hazards associated with using it. These hazards include but are not limited to:

  1. Shocks and electrocution
  2. Carbon monoxide
  3. Fires
  4. Noise and vibration

To minimize these hazards, keep your generator dry, and do not use it in rain or wet conditions. Also, keep the generator outside in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide can kill you in as little as 5 minutes and without warning.

Man to fill generator with gasoline

Just a few more tips: Before refueling your generator be sure to turn off the generator and let it cool down to avoid a fire hazard.  Store gas for your generator properly, not in your house, and in a ventilated building or under the cover of a car port or canopy. Avoid electrical hazards by keeping the generator dry and under a cover such as a car port or canopy, but only if it is at least 20 feet away from your house.

Sources: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/power-outage/safe-generator-use.html and https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_Hurricane_Facts/portable_generator_safety.pdf.

Add Comment