Portable Generator Safety Tips
 

We want the consumers to know that portable generators can be hazardous if used improperly. The hazards are:
(1) carbon monoxide, (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust and (2) electrocution from connecting the generator to the trailers electrical wiring system. Become familiar with the generator by reading the owner's manual before operating. Always know how to stop the generator quickly in case of an emergency. Also, understand the use of all generator controls, output receptacles and connections.

To avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning:

• Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages.
• Only operate the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated, dry area, away from air intakes to
    the trailer, and protected from direct exposure to rain and snow, preferably under a canopy,
    open shed or awning.

To avoid electrocution:

• Plug individual appliances into the generator using heavy duty, outdoor rated cords with a wire
    gauge adequate for the appliances  load.
• Observe the generator manufacturer's instructions for safe operation.
• Do not plug the generator into a wall outlet.
• If connecting the generator into the trailer wiring is necessary, have a qualified electrician hook up 
    the standby electrical system, or have the local utility install a linking devise if available.
• Be sure that the generator unit is kept clean and in good running order. Dust and dirt    
    accumulations can cause overheating.

How about grounding?  Don't worry you say? Oh, you bought an expensive generator that is equipped with a GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter). Well did you know that a GFI might not function at all if the generator is not properly grounded? Recently we had a customer bring in a new generator for service. His generator had an internal short circuit that made the handles on the unit electrically charged (hot as we say). Had he touched the wrong two things, at the same time, it could have killed him.

Ventilating: A portable generator uses an internal combustion engine, which emits carbon monoxide, so it must be ventilated. Be sure to place the generator where exhaust fumes will not enter the trailer. Consider the fuel capacity of the generator if you want to keep a refrigerator running during the day while you are away from the trailer.

Operate on firm, level surfaces:

• Operate the generator on a level surface. If the generator is operated at an angle, the lubrication   
    system may fail causing a lack of lubrication to the critical moving parts of the engine.
• The carburetor fuel may be changed to cause the float to stay open to allow fuel to flow into
    the carburetor bowl unrestricted. This could cause spark plug fouling, piston/cylinder washing, and
    crankcase oil dilution.
• If the generator is operating on soft ground such as sand or soft soil, the generator may tip over.

Generator Readiness:

• The generator should be started and loaded at least once a month.
• The fuel tank should be kept filled with fresh fuel. A fuel conditioner should be used to keep the
    fuel from breaking down.
• A trickle charger should charge the battery monthly. The brief time the generator is exercised may
    not be enough time to allow the generator's charging system to adequately charge the battery.

Most deaths have occurred when carbon monoxide seeps into the living quarters or dressing room
areas large enough to sleep in, but the gas from a trailer next to your can also seep into the area where you are sleeping.

Carbon monoxide is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood stream, which decreases its ability to carry oxygen. The end result is asphyxiation, a slow suffocation. It begins with drowsiness or a feeling of confusion, which is why most people die while they are asleep. Other symptoms are watery or itchy eyes, vomiting, nausea, and headache, ringing in the ears and tightness across the chest. If you wake up from sleeping in your trailer and feel like you have the flu, it could be carbon monoxide poisoning.

Please protect yourself and others. Purchase a carbon monoxide detector, it is a small pittance compared to the consequences. The Environmental Protection Agency warns against using a gasoline-powered generator in an enclosed area. Using long extension cords is better than the ramifications. The EPA also advises against  sleeping in any area with an un-vented kerosene or gas space heater.

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