There's a lot to learn prior to using a powerful portable generator.
The most important thing you can learn is how to use your generator safely. In other posts, we'll cover more general usage and maintenance, but this post is dedicated to using your equipment safely.
There's a lot to learn, so buckle up! Note that this is a simple guide to get you started on the basics of safety, and is not cover everything that is needed to know prior to operating a portable generator. Ensure you read your owner's manual prior to operating the equipment. Let's hop in!
Getting Started
If you're purchasing this or any other generator to power your homes' devices, it's critical that you understand that this powerful machine has the capacity to seriously harm or even cause the death of you or your loved ones.
We're blunt here so that you're aware of the risks. That said, there is good news - having some basic exhaust knowledge combined with following some simple and easy steps will make using your portable generator extremely safe.
Reducing Carbon Monoxide (CO for short) Risk
First, let's talk about CO - an odorless gas that can kill you in minutes when in close proximity. You can't smell, taste, see, or feel it, making it extremely dangerous. If you don't smell exhaust, that doesn't necessarily mean that you aren't breathing in this deadly gas!
Here's how to mitigate CO exposure:
- When operating the generator, ensure it is located out in the open outdoors, at least 20 feet away from any space with people in it.
- Point the generator with the exhaust side facing away from you or the swelling where people are located.
- Instead of running extension cords from the generator into the home via a window or door, consider purchasing a Generator Through-The-Wall Kit, which will ensure you don't expose the inside of your home to exhaust or the elements.
- Ensure the dwelling you are located in has working CO alarms. Remember that regular smoke alarms will NOT detect CO, so you'll need to ensure you have proper CO detection alarms installed.
- If anyone reports feeling dizzy, sick, or weak, that person may have CO poisoning. Even if the generator has been off for hours, CO can linger. Do not hesitate - get the person to fresh air and call emergency services right away.
Source: FIRMAN W01682 Operator's Manual
Source: FIRMAN W01682 Operator's Manual
Reducing Fire Risk
Portable generators can cause a fire if left near flammable objects.
It's not just your house that you need to keep safe. You also need to remember to keep the generator a safe distance away from trees or other potentially flammable items (e.g., fences or children's toys). Keep the generator a minimum of 5 feet away from objects over a foot in height that could catch fire.
Source: FIRMAN T08071 Operator's Manual
You might be tempted to move a generator to an unsuitable location (underneath a deck, or inside a garage, for example). However, this will increase the risk of CO accumulation and pose a fire risk.
Instead, keep the generator away from the house and use some form of generator canopy to protect your generator while it's in use. These covers are specifically designed for use in inclement weather and do not pose safety risks.
Conclusion
There are other safety measures to keep in mind, particular with electricity, but we'll cover those in another post. If you follow the above safety precautions, you'll mitigate CO and fire dangers, which will go a long way in making sure you, your family, and your home stay safe.