In the event of a power outage at your home, an emergency generator could be your saving grace. However, emergency generators can also be extremely dangerous if used improperly. To ensure that your household remains protected while using an emergency generator, consider implementing these helpful safety recommendations. 
- Do not run gasoline engines in an enclosed area because they produce carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas that can cause death.
- Check the oil level in the engine on a regular basis, especially before using.
- Before refueling, let the engine cool completely.
- Place your generator a safe distance away from other structures, as the engine can get hot.
- Make sure that your generator stays dry to prevent water damage and electrical hazards.
- Do not use a generator with appliances that have gotten wet.
- Watch out for a voltage drop when using an extension cord that is too long or when using a cord with a wire size that is too small.
- Connect generators directly into appliances but never directly into a home electrical supply box.
- Ground the generator based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Select the appropriate outlet with the correct voltage.
- Start running the generator before turning on the AC circuit or before plugging in the appliance.
Keep This Calculation in Mind
The capacity of a generator is calculated in watts. For instance, you may own a 2,000-watt generator. Therefore, if you have an appliance that requires 120 volts and uses 10 amps, the appliance will require 1,200 watts of power.
By doing this calculation, you can determine what appliances can safely run on your generator based on its wattage rating. For more home safety guidance and homeowners insurance solutions, contact us today.