At Volt-Tech Electric Company, we want to help you make sure you always have the power you need to keep your home or business’ essential systems running, and one way we do that is by providing emergency generators. While generators are undoubtedly useful and even life-saving, they also pose some serious safety hazards if used improperly. With that in mind, we have put together this guide on how to use generators safely.
- Never Run Generators Indoors- First, you should always place generators outdoors and keep them well away from any structures. Generators produce carbon monoxide as they run, which means that running one indoors is a serious danger to everyone’s health and safety.
- Always Keep Generators Dry- Second, always make sure to keep your generator dry, and never use it in wet or rainy conditions. In addition, always make sure your hands are completely dry before you operate the generator–all of these measures are designed to prevent anyone from getting electrocuted.
- Never Plug Generators Into Wall Outlets- The correct way to use your generator to power things is to connect the appliance directly to the generator using an extension cord (which should be heavy-duty, outdoor-rated, and in good condition). Don’t try to plug the generator into a wall outlet to power your whole home or business, as this is highly unsafe.
- Let Generators Cool Before Refueling- Another key step to using generators safely it to turn them off periodically and let them cool down. In particular, you should definitely let your generator cool completely before refilling the fuel tank, as no one wants to risk a hot engine igniting the gasoline.