Power Outages
Generator Safety During Weather Outages: Carbon Monoxide, Placement, and Cords
How to use generators more safely during storm outages, including carbon monoxide risk, outdoor placement, extension cords, fuel, and backfeed hazards.
Quick answer: Generators must run outside, far from doors, windows, vents, garages, and attached spaces. Carbon monoxide can kill quickly.
Carbon monoxide
Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, on a porch, or near openings. CO has no smell and can build up fast.
Use battery-powered CO alarms on every level of the home.
Electrical safety
Use properly rated outdoor cords and keep connections dry.
Do not backfeed a home through an outlet. Use a transfer switch installed correctly if powering circuits.
Fuel and weather
Store fuel safely, let equipment cool before refueling, and protect the generator from rain without enclosing it.
Read the manufacturer instructions before an emergency.