Be Safe With Generators

By NEIL JOHNSON njohnson@tampatrib.com

Published: May 21, 2006

Generators can reduce the inconvenience of being without electricity, but they also produce potentially deadly carbon monoxide. Here are some tips for using them safely:

•Never use a generator in an enclosed or partly enclosed space. Do not run one inside a house or garage, in a crawl space, lanai, attic or porch. Also keep them away from doors, windows and vents.

Opening windows or running fans will not provide enough ventilation.

•Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, so a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector - much like a smoke detector - can save your life.

•The size of a generator you need depends on what you want to power.

A small generator with a capacity of 3000 watts can run a refrigerator, fewer than 10 lights, a television and some fans.

With a generator that produces 5,000 watts you can add a single element of an electric stove.

Some have a circuit breaker that shuts off the generator if you overload it.

•Do not connect a generator directly to your home's electric system or to an outlet. This can send electricity outside your home and endanger utility workers who do not expect lines to be energized.

•Use only grounded, heavy extension cords no longer than 50 feet to connect appliances. Do not use cords meant for indoor use. Coiled cords build up heat, so uncoil them.

If powering a computer, connect the cord to a heavy surge protector, not just a power strip.

•Turn off the generator and let it cool before refilling the gas tank. Don't run the generator until the tank runs out. Stop the generator, allow it to cool and refuel before that happens.

•Check the oil each time you refuel.

•If it rains, shut off the generator and bring it under cover.