Standby Generator Safety

A generator can be very useful during a power outage, but remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. To protect yourself and your family, or your business, remember to follow these rules.

Always:

  • Have a licensed electrician install stationary or stand-by emergency generators.
  • Plug appliances directly into an emergency or portable generator. This is the safest way to use a generator. We don’t recommend connection of a generator directly to a breaker panel, fuse box or meter box.
  • Obey all local, state and national electrical and fire codes.
  • Store gasoline in approved fuel containers and out of children’s reach.
  • Keep children away from generators.
  • Have a fully charged, properly rated fire extinguisher (i.e., rated for electrical and gas fires) ready at all times.

And, remember to:

  • Never connect generators to your utility service through receptacles, outlets, breakers, fuses or meter boxes.
  • Never replenish fuel in a generator while it is running.
  • Call an electrician to repair a generator; never attempt to repair it yourself.
  • Operate your generator outside. Never operate it inside a building or garage.