Using Your Portable Generator Safely

Your portable generator is your ally during your times of need. It provides you with emergency power during unexpected power failures and catastrophes. At the same time, a portable generator comes in handy when you?re in places that are away from the main power grid. However, a portable generator can cause its own catastrophe if you are not careful.

When using your power generator you should always think of safety first. Like any other equipment, a portable generator can cause fatal accidents. There are a number of things that you should watch for when using a portable generator. Once you are familiar with these you should be able to work with generators quite safely.

Play with fire?

Always remember that generators produce electricity. Like fire, electricity is both harmful and deadly if we don?t take proper precautions. The danger of electrocution and electric short-caused fires is compounded when you use portable generators. Unlike the electricity provided to our homes by major electrical companies, the power provided by a generator may not pass through emergency systems like fuses, power relays and circuit breakers. So in the event of shorts and electrocution, the generator may not automatically cut the power.

To steer clear of hazards like these, always check the wirings and connections of your generator. Be sure that no wires are exposed and improperly knotted. Also keep your generator away from moisture at all times.

?you get burnt.

Along with electricity, heat is also produced when your generator is running. Your portable generator is a high-risk fire hazard. Always be sure to place your fuel containers at a safe distance from your generator. Take note, too, of your generator?s temperature. Do not refuel your generator when it?s running and when it?s extremely hot for you may inadvertently cause fire. It is even better to choose a portable generator that has a temperature monitor and an efficient cooling system.

Silent killer

Carbon monoxide is produced as exhaust material when your generator is running. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is both odorless and colorless. To avoid CO poisoning always see to it that your portable generator is situated in a well-ventilated area. Keep it away from windows and doors that open to your sleeping quarters. When somebody gets exposed to CO, you should move him/her to an open area as fast as possible. Seek medical help right away if his/her condition remains unstable.

Noise Pollution

The noise some generators produce is not just annoying; it?s also bad for your well-being. You must choose a portable generator that works efficiently, provides you stable power, and makes the least noise while doing so. Quiet generators are now available in the market if you are looking for a replacement for your old noisy generator. But if you still want to make use of your old generator, be sure to protect yourself from noise pollution. Use an earplug and put your generator in a stable place to minimize vibrations.

If you do all of the above and practice all necessary precautions, then you minimize the risks associated with using a portable generator.

Mark Sheppler is a handyman and home improvement writer. Always working with the right tools he is rarely far away from a portable power generator.