When strong summer storms roll through, high winds and heavy rain can bring the potential for power outages. When an outage strikes, you may power on your portable generator.
Since public power communities in North Carolina keep the electricity flowing 99.99% of the time, outages don’t happen often. When an outage does occur, it lasts, on average, only half as long as those of other power providers.
In those rare times when you need a portable generator, it can be a lifesaver. But not using it properly can lead to injury or even death. Following these simple tips can prevent accidental injury to your family and to utility workers restoring power.
- Never attach a generator directly to a structure’s electrical system unless the generator has a transfer switch properly installed by a qualified electrician. Without a properly installed transfer switch, the generator could create backfeed, energizing the electric system. That risks electrocuting utility workers who are restoring energy to lines they assume are de-energized. The generator could also overheat or overload the structure’s electric system, causing a fire, or it could issue power surges that damage equipment and create electrical hazards.
- Never use a generator indoors or place a generator exhaust near doors, windows, or vents. Generators emit carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can lead to severe health issues and death. Generator exhaust is also hot and may ignite nearby flammable materials.
- Always inspect your generator for damaged fuel lines before turning it on.
- Always shut down the generator and allow it to cool before refueling to prevent potential fires or explosions.
- Always plug appliances directly into the generator using manufacturer-supplied cords or undamaged, grounded, heavy-duty extension cords. Cords that are torn or cut could lead to electric shock or fire.
- Always keep your generator dry to prevent electric shock.
- Always use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) according to manufacturer’s instructions. GFCIs detect electrical surges and imbalances, preventing the risk of electric shock.
- Always maintain and operate your generator according to manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Stay informed. Prevent hazardous conditions for you, your family, your neighborhood, and your electric utility workers.
Check out more tips to stay prepared for severe weather and hurricane season here.