Personal Insurance Blog

Winter has arrived and that means heavy snow falls, downed utility lines and power outages.

Many people turn to a portable generator for a temporary solution without knowing the risks.

• Generators should be used in well ventilated locations outside 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 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 hot.

• Store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for that purpose and is correctly labeled as such.  Store the containers outside of living areas.

• When plugging in appliances, make sure they are plugged directly into the generator or a heavy duty outdoor-rated extension cord.

If you must connect the generator to the house wiring to power appliances, have a qualified electrician install a properly rated transfer switch in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and all applicable state and local electrical codes.