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Tips on generator safety: Things to know about Dos & Don’ts

Tips on generator safety: Things to know about Dos & Don’ts

A generator can be your last line of defense to keep things running when the power goes out. During severe storms or a power outage, generators provide power to your refrigerator, appliances, chargers and other electrical devices.

Most generators are used in the event of power outages during a storm, with the power shutting off within seconds.

The need for generators
Most homeowners prefer to have a generator on hand in case of a power outage lasting more than an hour or two. However, depending on the type of power outage and the utility’s restoration method, some power outages can last for days or weeks.

Food, vital medical equipment, lighting, heaters, AC, fans, chargers, and other essential equipment that requires power cannot be used during extended power outages, which can lead to dangerous circumstances or property damage.


However, improper use of a generator and failure to follow proper generator safety precautions can lead to dangerous situations, including injury, property damage, and even death.

The need for security protocols

Between 2005 and 2016, there were 851 deaths related to portable generators. In these incidents, 82 percent of the victims were over the age of 25, and more than 75 percent of the victims were men.

Several hundred other incidents were reported involving property damage or hazardous situations that did not result in death. And those are just the documented cases. For this reason, our company recommend that proper safety precautions be taken.

Safety tips for portable generators

Here are some of the tips you should follow for safety reasons:

• First, choose the generator that best suits your needs.
• Second, when choosing a generator, think about everything you want to power at home. Will it be your lighting, appliances or other household items?

• Third, calculate how much electricity they will use and add it all up.
• Finally, decide on a generator that can supply more electricity than the appliances in your home can handle.

There is a risk of blowing the generator fuse or damaging connected equipment if the appliances in your home use more electricity than the generator can supply. Consult an electrician if you are unsure of how much power you need.

Proper storage of your generator

Always store your generator in a dry, clean, and easily accessible location. You don’t want to be tripping over objects in the dark trying to reach it when the power goes out.

Use a grounding cable

Use sturdy extension cords that are securely grounded to connect equipment to the generator. Without adequate grounding, you may be electrocuted.

Examine all cords

Inspect all cords that you will connect to the generator for fraying and exposed wires. Keep your generator in good working order. Use new gasoline if possible. Use a fuel stabilizer if the generator sits for a long time before using it again.

Start the generator at least once a month and run it for a few minutes. If the battery has a problem, charge it from time to time to keep it ready for use.