HURRICANE: Generator Safety

Generator Safety

  • Read and follow all the manufacturer’s guidelines when using a generator to avoid dangerous shortcuts and ensure safe operation.
  • DO NOT directly connect your generator to your home’s breaker or fuse box. Power from a generator connected to a home’s wiring will “back feed” into utility lines – which can severely injure or kill a neighbor or utility crew working to restore power.
  • DO NOT run generators inside your home or garage, as they produce potentially deadly carbon monoxide fumes.
  • Keep generators away from all open windows, including neighbors’ windows, to prevent the fumes from entering a home or business.
  • Buy a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm, which will alert you if carbon monoxide levels become dangerous.
  • Turn off all connected appliances before starting your generator.
  • Turn connected appliances on one at a time, never exceeding the generator’s rated wattage.
  • DO NOT touch a generator if you are wet, standing in water or on damp ground.
  • NEVER refuel a hot generator or one that is running – hot engine parts or exhaust can ignite gasoline.
  • Ensure you have plenty of gas safely stored in gas containers to operate your generator.

More FPL Generator Safety Tips  l  Return To Hurricane Guide Page

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