A Quick Guide To Safe Generator Usage

In many locations around the world, where electricity supplies are unreliable of have been damaged as a result of a natural disaster, the hire of portable generators is a common resort for thousands of people. Unfortunately, while power may be restored, the usage of a generator can bring with it further risks of a different nature.

2 Days ago, in the aftermath of the tornado outbreak in Tennessee, an elderly couple were found dead in their home following an apparent misuse of a portable generator they had hired in the wake of the destruction wrought by the tornado. Such a story highlights the need to take extreme care when operating such a piece of machinery.

Plenty of official government sites provide safety information regarding the use of generators in such situations, and warn against the very serious threats posed by such machines. It is generally accepted that the primary concern is that of Carbon Monoxide poisoning; the assumed cause of death for the elderly couple in Tennessee.

If a generator is kept in a confined space, such as a closed garage or basement, the risk of toxic fumes infiltrating your living space and causing CO poisoning is greatly heightened. Even if windows and doors are opened, and a good deal of ventilation is provided, intoxication of your home/garage will not be entirely prevented.

As such, it is always best to keep them outdoors, and away from any open windows where fumes may enter into the home. However, while it is important to use them out of your home or any public building, it is also imperative that the generator is kepr dry to prevent the risk of electrocution. To cover both points, it is advisabelto operate the machine outdoors under a canopy or gazebo structure wher air can flow naturally, but where the equipment will be protected from adverse weather conditions.

Electrocution can also be casued by a practice know as 'back feeding'. This is when a power generator is plugged directly into a wall outlet. This can cause injury not only to the homeowner, but also to utility workers, or even neighbours whose electrical supply is served by the same utility transformer.

So, when considering generator hire as a temporary alternative to a power outage, or even as a means of powering an outdoors event, always consider the safety precautions necessary to avoid injury or even death. Generators can be a total life saver in times of crisis. Don't let them create a crisi of their own.