After severe weather, many people use portable generators to keep their homes warm, lighted and safe during extended power outages. Typically fueled by gasoline, these generators provide enough power to run a gas furnace as well as a few lights and outlets until power is restored. They’re a reliable, affordable way to keep your home running when the power is not.

But the safe operation of a portable generator is a serious matter, because improper operation can be deadly. Generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), a poisonous gas that is colorless and odorless and is responsible for an increasing number of deaths, particularly after severe weather causes power outages. In fact, beginning this month, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) began requiring manufacturers of portable generators to include a danger label on all new generators and generator packaging that reads: “Using a generator indoors can KILL YOU IN MINUTES.”

Before using your portable generator, please read read the following safety tips provided by Briggs & Stratton, a leading manufacturer of portable and home standby generators.

1.  Always read and follow the manufacturer's operating and instructions before running generator.

2.  Engines emit carbon monoxide. DO NOT run generator in enclosed area.

3.  Use your generator outdoors only, away from open windows, vents, or doors. Never use your

     generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or other enclosed areas. Fumes that can kill you

     can build up in these areas. Using a fan and opening doors or windows does NOT provide enough

     fresh air.

4.  Use a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector when running your generator.

5.  Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable, allow engine to cool at least 2 minutes before

      refueling. Always use fresh gas in your generator. If you do not plan to use your generator in 30

     days, stabilize gas with fuel stabilizer.

6.  Maintain your generator according to the maintenance schedule for peak performance and safety.

7.  DO NOT operate the generator near combustible materials.

8.  When using extension cords, be sure they are of the grounded type and are rated for the

     application. Coiled cords can get HOT, always uncoil cords and lay them in flat open locations.

9.  If you are connecting a generator into your home electrical system, have a qualified electrician

      install a Power Transfer Switch. Never plug your generator directly into your home outlet.

10.  Protect your generator from exposure to rain and snow.  Generators produce powerful voltage;

        DO NOT operate under wet conditions.