Small diesel generators provide a good source of power, but if not properly installed or used, can become deadly. To keep your family safe, The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have made a helpful new video and recommend taking the following precautions:

- Contact a licensed electrician to set up your generator to make sure it meets local codes. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring without an appropriate transfer switch installed.

- Electricity from generators that are connected directly to household wiring can backfeed along power lines and severely harm anyone that is touching them, including lineworkers making repairs.

Other tips include:

- Make sure the generator is grounded the right way.

- Keep the generator completely dry.

- Make sure extension cords used with portable gas generators are rated for the load, and are free of cuts and worn insulation and have three-pronged plugs.

- Do not overload the generator. A portableYour generator should be used only when necessary and only to power essential equipment or appliances.

- Never operate your generator in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Use carbon monoxide detectors in nearby enclosed spaces to monitor levels. Generators can produce lethal levels of carbon monoxide very quickly levels of carbon monoxide. Therefore you must install carbon monoxide detectors in all enclosed nearby places to monitor the levels}.

- Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrical shock injuries and electrocutions.

- store the fuel for your generator safely, away from living areas and other fuel-burning appliances, in clearly labeled containers. Before you re-fule your generator, always turn it off and let it cool down.

- Make sure that all appliances that are powerd by the generator are turned off before you shut down you portable generator.

- Keep your children away from your generator at all times.

Although electricity is a powerful tool, it can also cause lethal injuries. Better safety rules have reduced electrical hazards that cause injuries and porperty damage and even deaths. But good safety habits are still the best prevention against electrical hazards.

Also it is very important to use safe equipment from a reliable manufacturer, like Generac Portable Generators.

Bookmark to: