Nei What You Should Know About Portable Generator Safety (NAPSA)—Portable electric generators provide a good source of power, but if improperly installed = ss UW or operated, can becomedeadly. To keep families safe, The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) and Con- sumer Product Safety Commis- sion (CPSC) offer a helpful new video and recommend taking the following precautions: Contact a licensed electrician to install your generator to make sure it meets local codes. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring without an appropriate transfer switch installed. Power from generators connected directly to household wiring can backfeed along power lines and electrocute anyone com- Electricity can be a powerful tool if you useit safely. A helpful new video offers tips on safely using electrical generators. Othertips include: vent electrocutions and electrical shock injuries. Makesure fuel for the gener- properly grounded. Keep the generatordry. Make sure extension cords used with generators are rated for the load, and are free of cuts and worn insulation and have threepronged plugs. Do not overload the generator. A portable generator should be used only when necessary and only to power essential equipment or appliances. living areas, in properly labeled containers and awayfrom fuelburning appliances. Before refueling, always turn the generator off and let it cool down. Turn off all appliances powered by the generator before shutting down the generator. Keep children away from portable generatorsatall times. Electricity is a powerful tool. It can also be a lethal hazard. Better in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Use carbon monoxide electrical hazards that cause deaths, injuries and property damage. But good safety habits are still the best prevention againstelectrical hazards. Visit www.electrical-safety.org for more information on electrical hazards and precautions and how to obtain the video. ing in contact with them, includ- ing lineworkers making repairs. Make sure your generator is Never operate the generator detectors in nearby enclosed spaces to monitor levels. Generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide very quickly, which can be deadly. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help pre- ator is stored safely, away from safety standards have reduced
