Ensuring Safety with Generators During Power Outages

With unpredictable weather events becoming more common across Oregon and Washington, preparing for a power outage is no longer optional, it’s essential. Having a reliable generator can protect your home, your essential equipment, and your family, but only when it is used correctly. From portable generators to standby generators understanding proper generator safety during a power outage helps reduce electrical risks, prevent carbon monoxide exposure, and ensure your system performs when you need it most.

This guide outlines critical safety guidelines, operational tips, and best practices to help homeowners use generator power safely and effectively during outages.

Generator Safety

Generators pose electrical risks if not installed or operated correctly. Improper use can lead to electric shock, fires, or deadly carbon monoxide exposure. Always follow manufacturer instructions, directions supplied with your generator, and local laws related to generator use.

Before operating any generator:

• Keep children and pets away from the unit

• Ensure the generator remains dry and is placed on a dry surface

• Avoid use in wet or moist conditions where weather creates wet environments

• Never feed power into a home’s wiring without an approved transfer switch

These safety measures protect your home’s electrical system, nearby utility workers, and repair crews restoring power.

Home Standby Generators: A Safe and Reliable Solution

Home standby generators offer a dependable power source during outages, automatically starting up when power is lost. Compared to portable generators, they require less frequent refueling and ensure the continuous operation of critical appliances and systems. However, it’s important to regularly check these units during extended outages to ensure they function correctly and safely. Regular maintenance checks, especially after every 100 hours of use, are crucial to prevent operational issues.

Key safety benefits of standby generators include:

• Automatic operation without manual setup

• Safe connection through a power transfer switch

• Reliable support for connected appliance loads

• Reduced need for manual refueling

Portable Generator Safety: Mobility with Caution

A portable generator offers mobility and versatility, but it requires careful handling. These units must always be operated outdoors in an open canopy-like structure or well-ventilated area with plenty of fresh air.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Portable generators produce toxic engine exhaust that contains deadly carbon monoxide (CO). To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Never run a generator in a garage, partially enclosed area, or near windows or doors

• Keep generators far from living spaces and air intakes

• Position the generator where exhaust can dissipate safely

Prevent carbon monoxide exposure by following all placement and ventilation recommendations.

Electrical Safety Tips

• Plug appliances directly into the generator or use heavy duty outdoor rated extension cords

• Never plug a generator into a wall outlet or generator into a wall

• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) when available

• Ensure the entire cord is rated for outdoor use and free of damage

Operational Checks During Extended Outages

During prolonged outages, regular checks are essential to maintain safe generator use. Monitor oil levels, operating temperature, and fuel supply. Allow hot engine parts to cool before refueling to avoid gasoline spilled on hot surfaces.

Fuel should be stored safely in approved containers, away from ignition sources, and never inside a locked shed or enclosed space attached to the home.

For standby generators, ensure the transfer switch installed is functioning properly and that the generator is not overloaded beyond its power requirements.

Installation and Maintenance: Key to Safe Operation

Proper installation is critical for long-term safety and performance. A permanent generator should always be installed by a qualified vendor or licensed electrician to protect your home’s wiring and electrical system.

Oregon Generators provides professional installation services that meet all local safety and code requirements. Ongoing maintenance ensures your generator remains ready to power essential equipment, protect perishable food, and support your home’s power needs when outages occur.

Stay Prepared with Oregon Generators

Don’t wait until the next power outage to discover your generator isn’t ready. Whether you’re considering a portable generator or a full standby system, Oregon Generators is here to help you choose, install, and maintain the right solution for your home.

Contact Oregon Generators today to ensure your generator is installed safely, operates reliably, and keeps your family protected when the power goes out.