Generator Safety Tips: Before, During & After Operation
When the power goes out in the middle of a storm, having a generator can be a lifeline. But using it the wrong way can turn a smart backup plan into a dangerous situation.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that nearly 100 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by portable generators. In Upstate New York cities like Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse, where outages can happen during blizzards, ice storms, or heavy winds, safe generator use is essential.
Whether you rely on a portable model or a whole-home standby system, taking a few safety precautions before, during, and after use can help protect your home and your family.
Potential Hazards of Improper Generator Use
It’s easy to underestimate how risky generators can be. But we’ve seen what happens when shortcuts are taken. Here are some of the most common dangers:
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: A running generator produces CO gas, which is odorless and deadly. Indoors or even in enclosed outdoor spaces, it can become lethal in minutes.
- Fire Hazards: Hot engine parts, spilled fuel, or improper placement can all lead to fires.
- Shock or Electrocution: Wet conditions, ungrounded cords, or bad connections put people at risk.
- Back feeding the Grid: Plugging a generator directly into your home’s wiring without a transfer switch can send live electricity back into the utility line. That is not just dangerous, it is illegal.
- Improper Fuel Handling: Gasoline and propane must be stored safely and kept far away from the running unit.
These hazards can happen with any generator. Knowing the risks is the first step to avoiding them.
Generator Safety Tips
Before Use
- Start with the manual. It sounds basic, but every model is different.
- Set up in the right spot. Portable generators should always be at least 20 feet from your home, windows, or vents.
- Install a CO alarm. Keep one near all bedrooms and test it regularly.
- Look it over. Check for damage, cracked wires, or low oil levels.
- Use the right cords. Heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords are a must.
- Test the system if it’s been sitting. Let it run briefly and listen for anything unusual.
During Use
- Never run it indoors. That includes garages, basements, or even carports with open sides.
- Keep it dry. Set the generator on a dry surface. Use a canopy or tent made for generator use if it’s raining.
- Watch your wattage. Don’t overload the system. Spread out usage when possible.
- Keep fuel at a safe distance. Store it well away from the unit and out of direct sunlight.
- Start with the essentials. Power one appliance at a time to avoid spikes.
After Use
- Cool it down first. Never refuel a hot or running generator.
- Shut off appliances before stopping the generator. This avoids sudden power surges.
- Check for leaks. Look over fuel lines and hoses after extended use.
- Top off fluids and clean the area. Wipe up spills and make sure your cords are stored properly.
- Don’t forget maintenance. Like any machine, generators need regular tune-ups.
How Home Power Systems Enhances Generator Safety
At Home Power Systems, we’ve installed and serviced thousands of generators across Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo. We’ve seen firsthand how small details make a big difference in long-term safety and performance.
Here’s how we help our customers stay safe:
- Expert Installation: We install whole-home generators to meet all state codes and safety standards. Every unit includes proper ventilation, fuel line connection, and system testing.
- Transfer Switches: Every installation includes a properly rated automatic or manual transfer switch to prevent back feeding and protect your property.
- Preventive Maintenance Plans: Our scheduled checkups include oil changes, filter replacements, battery tests, and more to keep systems reliable.
- Thorough Inspections: We look at every aspect, including airflow, load balance, and electrical integrity, before we ever sign off.
- Emergency Repair Support: If something doesn’t sound right during a storm, Home Power Systems' emergency repair specialists are just a phone call away.
- Walkthroughs and Training: We take time to show you how to operate your generator safely and answer any questions before we leave your driveway.
Generator safety is not just about using common sense. It is about having the right setup, regular service, and a trusted expert to call when something changes.
Whether you’re weathering a winter storm in Syracuse or keeping the lights on during a summer outage in Buffalo, a generator can offer serious peace of mind. But like any powerful tool, it comes with responsibility.
With a few simple precautions and professional support from Home Power Systems, you can count on your generator to deliver power safely when you need it most. We help homeowners across Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse stay ready with expert installation, scheduled maintenance, and service you can rely on. Connect with us today or self-schedule a consultation, here.
