Thursday, January 21, 2016

Generator Safety Tips

from Middletown Public Info:
Jan 21 2016


Downed utility lines, power company blackouts and heavy snow falls can all lead to power outages. With heavy snow likely this weekend, now is a good time to start up the generator and make sure it is in good working order. Be sure to keep the following safety tips in mind.

· Generators must be placed at least 20 feet away from any habitable structure when they are used for safety reasons. 
· Generators should be operated in well ventilated locations outdoors away from all doors, windows and vent openings.  
· Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open. 
· Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors or other openings in the building. 
· Make sure to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for correct placement and mounting height. 
· Turn off generators and let them cool down before refueling. Never refuel a generator while it is running. 
· It is a good idea to have extra fuel on hand. Be sure to store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for the purpose and is correctly labeled as such. Store the containers outside of living areas.

Visit www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers for more fire safety information.

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