A home generator can be a convenient back-up solution during a power outage, if you use it safely. Before turning on a generator, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions!

Avoid deadly mistakes with portable generators

• Always operate your portable generator outside. Since it is gas powered, place it in a well-ventilated area way from doors, windows and your garage. Otherwise, deadly, odorless carbon monoxide can be drawn into your house and poison your family.
• Don't get shocked! Use only an outdoor-rated, grounded extension cord — one with a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) is best. Always follow manufacturer's instructions for grounding the generator, too.
• Never “back feed.” Sometimes, a person might try to “doctor” an extension cord to plug a generator into a regular household outlet, imagining this will power the whole house. This is extremely dangerous! Connecting a generator with a regular outlet can not only ruin your home's wiring and start a fire, it can also back feed electricity into the utility system and energize a line thought to be without power. An unsuspecting PGE lineman could be seriously injured or killed, not knowing the line is live. Only connect individual appliances to the receptacle outlet of the generator, following the instructions in your owner's manual.
• Install a transfer switch. The safest and best way to prevent portable generator back-feed problems is to install a transfer switch. A transfer switch permits the home's wiring system to be easily and cleanly disconnected from PGE's system and allows you to control the flow of electricity to those circuits you need most (like the furnace fan or refrigerator). Transfer switches are not inexpensive and require installation by a licensed electrician.
• Gas-powered generators can get very hot during operation. Use extreme caution to avoid burns. Also, let the engine cool before you refuel.
• Keep children and pets away from portable generators at all times.
• Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting down the generator.
• Don't overload your generator. Read and follow wattage guidelines in your owner's manual.