| Other Generator
Safety Reminders |
| Don't take chances
with Electric Generators |
Use only UL-listed, three-wire extension cords
with generators. (Be sure the extension cord is adequate to handle
the electrical load.) Plug the appliance into the extension cord
first...then plug the extension cord into the generator's outlet.
And remember...water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
Make sure your hands are dry and that you're standing in a dry place
whenever you operate your generator. Do not use a portable generator
in a flooded basement or inside buildings.
Other electrically powered equipment such as
emergency medical devices, computers and sophisticated electronics
equipment may require special backup or power conditioning
equipment. Check your manual or with the manufacturer directly for
more information.
*For motorized equipment, multiply the
running wattages by 2-1/2 (for most items, such as furnace fans), or
by 7 for pumps (such as well pumps, air compressors and air
conditioners).
Be sure the number and size of appliances you
plug into your generator is within it's wattage and amperage limits.
Use the following table as a guide, or check your owner's manuals.
And remember: starting an appliance with a motor inside requires
more power. Your generator must be sized to handle not only the
running wattages of your appliances, but also the starting wattage
of any motor(s).
The only safe way to connect a generator to
your existing wiring is to have a licensed electrician install a
transfer switch. A transfer switch isolates your circuits from our
system and prevents dangerous "backfeed". The transfer switch
transfers power from the utility line to the power coming in from
the generator. The electricity from your generator takes a safe path
directly to the circuits in your home.
Transfer switches also are convenient. They
allow you to power appliances you normally couldn't with a portable
generator including furnaces and well pumps. And you don't need
extension cords. Just start the generator and you're back in action.
Portable, gasoline-driven generators are
designed to be used with cord-connected equipment. They can be used
to bring the convenience of electrical service to remote locations,
such as construction sites and recreational areas. Small appliances,
lights and pumps can be plugged directly into outlets on these
portable generators.
Portable generators are not designed to
be connected to your house or any building wiring. Doing so can feed
power back onto our electric lines. This is life-threatening for
utility crews working to restore an outage and curious children
seeing a power line on the ground. Improper installations also can
do serious damage to the generator itself, as well as equipment and
appliances you use with it.
Electric generators can provide a convenient
source of power when and where you need it. Don't take chances with
your safety...and don't put others in danger!
If used improperly, electric generators - even
small, portable models - can threaten your safety and the safety of
everyone around you, including our employees working on the
electrical system.
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