Portable electric generators supply an excellent source of power, but if incorrectly installed or run, can become fatal.

To keep households safe, The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offer a valuable brand-new video and recommend taking the following safety measures:

 

– Contact a licensed electrical expert to install your generator to ensure it fulfills local codes. Do not connect generators directly to household electrical wiring without an appropriate transfer switch installed. Here is an electrical contractor that can handle the job:

 

 

Power from generators connected directly to household electrical wiring can backfeed along power lines and electrocute anybody coming in contact with them, consisting of lineworkers making repair work. Other ideas consist of:

– Make sure your generator is correctly grounded.

– Keep the generator dry.

– Make sure extension cables used with generators have the capacity for the load, and are free of cuts and worn insulation and have three-pronged plugs.

– Do not overload the generator. A portable generator ought to be used only when essential and only to power essential equipment or home appliances.

– Never run the generator in enclosed or partially confined areas. Deploy carbon monoxide detectors in neighboring enclosed areas to keep track of levels. Generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide very rapidly, which can be fatal.

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

– Make sure fuel for the generator is saved safely, far from living areas, in correctly labeled containers and far from fuel-burning home appliances. Prior to re-fueling, definately turn the generator off and let it cool off.

– Turn off all home appliances powered by the generator before shutting down the generator.

Better security requirements have actually lowered electrical hazards that cause deaths, injuries and property damage. Good security routines are still the best avoidance versus electrical hazards.

Contact a licensed electrical expert to install your generator to make sure it fulfills local codes.