| As Hurricane Sandy draws near, take a moment to review portable generator safety. According to data reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 73 deaths were attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning related to generator use in 2011. Sadly, most of these deaths could have been prevented. Portable generators present additional risks of which an owner must also be aware.
Please observe the following safety guidelines when using a portable generator:
• Read the owner's manual and be familiar with how the generator operates. Do not exceed power ratings.
• Never operate the generator indoors. The exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which can kill you in minutes. Keep the generator outside and away from open windows.
• Install battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors. Immediately evacuate to fresh air if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or sick.
• Allow the generator to cool before refueling. Gasoline vapors are flammable.
• Be mindful of the electrical hazard posed by generators, especially in wet, rainy conditions.
• Never try to "backfeed" from a portable generator to a wall outlet. This is hazardous to utility workers and your neighbors.
Please be careful during this storm and continue to listen for direction from authorities. |
