This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Generator Safety (Again)

Since the prolonged power outages caused by Tropical Storm Irene, many residents are contemplating purchasing generators.

Since Tropical Storm Irene many residents are looking into purchasing generators, either portable or permanent, for their homes. Following is some important tips that will help keep you and your family safe:

 

  • Permits from the are required for the generator itself (if permanent), the electrical tie-in and, the fuel supply.  This is not just for revenue generation – this is for your safety.  There are many safety requirements that must be followed for proper installation and the inspectors check make sure they are followed.
  • If purchasing a portable generator, proper electrical connection to the house wiring is a must. Trying to “backfeed” your house by plugging into an existing outlet can lead to damage to your home's wiring. It can also allow for power going back out to the street, endangering workers trying to repair down power lines.
  • Always hire licensed and insured contractors to insure proper installation.
  • Never run a generator inside of your home — even in the garage — even if the door is open!
  • Always read and follow manufacturer’s installation and operation instructions.
  • Keep generators at least 10 feet from any openings into your home, including dryer and bath exhaust outlets.
  • Always have working CO (carbon monoxide) detectors installed per manufacturer’s requirements in your home.
  • Always let generators cool down for a half hour before attempting to refuel (this goes for any gas powered equipment).

For questions regarding this or any other safety-related questions please contact the at 203-594-3030.

Find out what's happening in New Canaanwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?