Generator Safety: Protect Yourself and Utility Crews

Portable generators can provide temporary power during an outage, but using them incorrectly can create serious safety hazards for your family, neighbors, and utility workers.

If floodwater or standing water has been present near electrical equipment, turn off power at the main breaker or fuse panel. Do not restore power until the equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician.

When using a portable generator, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety recommendations. If you have questions about installation or operation, contact a qualified electrician for assistance. Generators should always be operated outdoors in a well ventilated area and never inside a home, garage, basement, or enclosed structure.

Understanding Backfeed

One of the most dangerous risks associated with generators is backfeed.

Backfeed occurs when electricity produced by a generator flows back onto utility power lines. Many people assume turning off the main breaker completely isolates their home from the electric system, but that is not always the case. If the breaker is damaged or not functioning properly, electricity can still travel onto utility lines.

This creates an extremely dangerous situation for lineworkers who may be repairing outage damage and expecting those lines to be de-energized. Backfeed can cause serious injury or even death.

To prevent backfeed, New-Mac Electric Cooperative strongly recommends having a qualified electrician install a transfer switch. A transfer switch safely separates your generator from the utility's electrical system while the generator is operating.

Additional Generator Safety Tips

• Always operate generators outdoors and away from doors, windows, and vents.

• Never plug a generator directly into a household outlet.

• Keep generators dry and protected from rain and standing water.

• Allow generators to cool before refueling.

• Follow all manufacturer operating and maintenance instructions.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Portable generators are a leading cause of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning during power outages. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly.

Always use generators in well ventilated outdoor areas and install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to help protect your family.

By following proper generator safety practices, you can keep your family safe while also protecting the utility crews working to restore power throughout our communities.