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Generator Safety

Generators can help restore your life to near normal levels during a power outage, but caution is needed to use them safely:
  • Always keep portable generators outdoors. Do not run them inside a garage or any enclosed space, and keep them at least 15 feet away from any open windows—yours or your neighbors.
  • Keep the generator dry and under an open canopy in order to avoid electrocution.
  • Hire a licensed electrician to install a transfer connection for the portable generator. Do not plug the generator into existing electrical receptacles in your house. Doing so can cause a back-feed of power into other electrical appliances, which can result in fire.

Safety Issues

  • Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust is a common and serious danger that can result in death if generators are used improperly, in particular, if the fuel is not burned completely.
  • Carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home and check the battery life monthly.

Fuel

  • Store fuel outdoors in an approved storage container. Contact your local fire department for information on approved storage containers and how to properly store fuel.
  • Always turn the generator off and let the engine cool before refueling.
  • Do not store fuel near the generator while it is running.

Learn More

Coverage/product information provided on this Web site is not an insurance policy or a supplement to any policy. This information is intended to provide a general description of products typically available through Mutual Benefit Insurance Company and Select Risk Mutual Insurance Company. The actual coverage provided is governed exclusively by the language contained within the insurance policy issued to you.