Portable Generator Safety Checklist

When it comes to generator there are a lot of factors to watch out for but portable generators have additional safety concerns because they are portable and not already pre-installed in desired locations. This makes portable generators more susceptible to other dangerous issues such as moving indoors and causing carbon monoxide poisoning or using one near flammable equipment which could lead to fires. The checklist below is a start list of items to watch out for people with portable generators. There are many other issues as well not on this checklist.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

One of the most dangerous problems with portable generators and generators in general is that they produce a high amount of carbon monoxide, way more than idle cars. That is why portable generators should never be used indoors or in partially enclosed areas with little or no ventilation. Even using a portable generator near a home or enclosed area can lead to buildup of CO. The CO can build up quickly and lead to serious injury or death. Carbon monoxide is not visible and it's smell is not noticeable and a leak or buildup of it can go undetected.

Preventing Portable Generator Fires

Portable generators can also cause fires if not used properly or if the fuel supply is not stored in a safe place. Fuel for portable generators are flammable and should be stored in labeled containers in areas where there is no heating appliances or in areas that get extremely hot. When refueling a portable generator, take precaution by turning it off for and letting it totally cool off before adding the fuel. This will prevent possible fuel ignition. A portable generator should also be used only in fire safe locations where it will not ignite any fuel or other items.

Portable Generator Electrical Safety

Because portable generators are designed to produce electrical power, there are certain to be some electrical hazards. Portable generators produce electricity and should never be used in the rain or other wet conditions where the water could mix with the electricity and lead to electrical shock. The same concepts applies to all electronics in that no wet hands should be used to touch any electrical tool including portable generators. The load of the portable generator should also be checked. Plug in only the wattage the generator is rated for and use only 3 pin, grounded cords to insure extra safety. Never run cords under carpets or other objects that can store the heat produced. Never plug a generator into a wall socket to try and power a house, this can lead to electrical damages to the house, the generator, and electrocution of utility workers trying to fix problems.

These following guidelines can help prevent serious injury and death when followed. There are a lot of safety issues when using portable generators so take precaution on using them.