How to Use a Generator Safely After a Hurricane Strikes

After a hurricane, the need for a reliable power source to maintain essential services becomes critical. This guide outlines the best practices for using a generator safely, ensuring that you can provide necessary power while minimizing risks.

The Importance of Safety First

When deciding to use a generator, the importance of safety should be your top priority. The same checklist applies as you would before a storm, starting with switching off your "main" breaker from the utility service lines. Post-hurricane, your goal is to ensure that the generator is operational and safe to use.

Inspecting Your Generator for Damages

Before starting your generator, inspect it thoroughly for any damages. Check for signs of water flood, physical damage, and ensure that it is in good working condition. Ensure that the generator is either an outdoor unit or designed to operate in a confined space safely. Carbon monoxide is a significant risk, and it is crucial to be aware of this danger.

Proper Usage of a Portable Temporary Emergency Generator

When using a portable generator, the first step is to run it outside where the exhaust fumes cannot enter your home. Use a proper, heavy-duty extension cable with the same rating as the generator to connect it to essential appliances such as a fridge and freezer. It is absolutely critical not to feed the generator into your house wiring unless you have an approved transfer switch.

The best strategy is to install two circuit breaker panels: one for city power and another for generator power for your fridge, freezer, and essential outlets. This "generator" panel should be powered through a transfer switch, ensuring that it switches seamlessly to the generator during a power failure. This setup not only provides a safer, more reliable power source but also protects utility workers from electrocution.

A third option is to install a small breaker panel for solar power and an inverter with batteries to power non-essential services. This solar panel should also be linked to the generator panel via suitable interlocks to ensure a safe and reliable power supply.

Three Primary Issues to Consider

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Do not operate a generator inside any occupied or attached structure. Place it outside, preferably downwind and away from windows or vents to ensure that exhaust fumes do not enter the building. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer and emphasizing this safety measure cannot be overstated.

Maintaining Electrical Safety

When handling electrical cords, never stand in water. While electrical cords may be used in wet locations, connections must not be submerged in water. Ensure the generator is protected from rain and never operated in standing water to prevent electrical shock and potential damage to the equipment.

Fire Safety Precautions

Do not refuel a generator with an integral fuel tank while it is running. Keep fuel containers at least several feet away from an operating generator to minimize the risk of fire and to prevent fuel spillage. Proper fuel management is crucial in hurricane recovery scenarios.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your generator operates safely and effectively during and after a hurricane, providing essential power while protecting yourself, your household, and the broader community from potential dangers.