Generator Safety

Carbon monoxide warning. Generators, camp stoves, barbecues, charcoal, and kerosene or propane burners give off carbon monoxide, which you cannot see or smell and which can kill within minutes. Never use them indoors, or in a garage, basement, shed, tent or covered porch, even with doors and windows open. Outdoors, keep them at least 20 feet (6 m) from doors, windows and vents.

CPSC warns that carbon monoxide from a generator can kill in minutes, and that it can stay in a space for hours after a generator has shut off.

Where to put it

• Outside only, at least 20 feet (6 m) from your home and away from windows, doors and vents.
• Point the exhaust away from buildings.
• Never in a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed or porch, even with fans or open doors and windows.
• Run it in the open on a dry surface where water cannot pool. Advice on rain cover differs: the US Consumer Product Safety Commission allows an open, canopy-like structure, while Canada.ca says never to run one under a covered area such as an awning or gazebo. In Canada, follow Canada.ca. Never bring it indoors or near openings to keep it dry.

Before you start

• Install carbon monoxide alarms with battery backup outside sleeping areas and on every floor, and test them monthly. In the US and Canada look for certification to UL 2034, IAS 6-96 or CSA 6.19.01.
• Choose a model that shuts off automatically when carbon monoxide levels are high.
• Dry your hands before touching it.

Cords

• Heavy-duty, outdoor-rated, three-prong cords whose wattage rating exceeds the total load.
• CDC suggests an extension cord longer than 20 feet (6 m).
• In Canada, use CSA-approved extension cords.
• Check for cuts. Do not pinch cords in windows or doors.
• Never plug a generator into a wall outlet. Connect to home wiring only through an approved transfer panel installed by a qualified electrician.

Fuel

• Turn it off and let it cool before refuelling. Gasoline on a hot engine can ignite.
• Store fuel outside living areas in labelled, non-glass safety containers, away from fuel-burning appliances.
• Never siphon gasoline.

If you feel unwell

Headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain or confusion can be carbon monoxide poisoning. Get to fresh air right away, and call 911. In the US you can also call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. If an alarm sounds, leave immediately and do not go back in until a qualified person says it is safe.