This morning, the Asheville Fire Department (AFD) issued a critical reminder on social media, emphasizing the need for proper use:
“Following Tropical Storm Helene, we’re sure more people have a portable generator. While they are efficient and affordable sources of power and can become life-saving tools in times of emergency, unfortunately, when misused, they can also be deadly. Year after year, people suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning due to the improper use of portable generators, such as using them indoors, in partially enclosed spaces, or too close to doors, windows, and vents.”
This stark warning serves as an essential safety message for everyone in the region.
🛑 The Cardinal Rule: Location, Location, Location
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning fuels. A single portable generator can produce as much CO as hundreds of cars, and it can reach lethal concentrations in minutes inside an enclosed space.
The single, most important safety rule is: NEVER run a generator indoors.
Core Safety Rules
OUTDOORS ONLY: Your generator must always be operated outdoors. Never place it in a home, garage (even if the door is open), basement, shed, or crawl space.
The 20-Foot Rule: Place the generator at least 20 feet (about 6 meters) away from your house or any other occupied building.
Direct Exhaust Away: Position the generator so that its exhaust is pointed away from your home, and away from all doors, windows, and vents. Wind can quickly carry fumes inside.
Avoid Shelters: Do not operate the generator on a porch or in a carport; these are considered partially enclosed spaces and do not provide sufficient ventilation.
Keep it Dry: If using in wet weather, operate it on a dry surface under an open, canopy-like structure, ensuring there is still ample ventilation and protection from direct rain.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Your Only Defense
Since you cannot see or smell CO, a working detector is your only warning.
Install battery-operated or battery-backup CO alarms on every level of your home and outside all separate sleeping areas.
Test your alarms monthly and replace batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Know the Symptoms: If you experience symptoms like headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, or confusion, move everyone to fresh air immediately and call 911.
🛠️ Essential Generator Best Practices
Proper setup and maintenance are crucial to preventing injury, electrocution, or fire.
Electrical and Fire Safety Checklist
NO Backfeeding: NEVER plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. This is deadly and can injure utility workers.
Safe Hookup: The only safe way to power your home’s wiring is by having a licensed electrician install a transfer switch.
Use Proper Cords: Plug appliances directly into the generator using heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords that are fully grounded (3-pronged) and rated for the electrical load.
Cool Down Before Fueling: ALWAYS shut off the generator and allow it to cool completely before refueling. Spilled gasoline on hot engine parts can ignite.
Proper Fuel Storage: Store fuel in approved, non-glass safety containers outdoors, away from living areas, the generator, and any other heat or flame source.
Portable Generator Safety Resources
For more detailed safety checklists and information reinforcing the critical "Keep it Outside" message, consult the national safety campaign:
WNCTimes