We know what a live-saver a backup generator can be, especially when power is out for an extended period of time. But, in the middle of an emergency, it can be easy to forget basic safety measures.
Read on for an article by Consumer Reports about the dangers of portable generators.
Portable generators can harm as well as help
The biggest risks when using a portable generator are carbon-monoxide (CO) poisoning, fire, and electrocution.
CO poisoning is especially insidious, since it can happen quickly with little warning. Early symptoms are fatigue and headache, but you may not notice them before CO in your home reaches dangerous levels. Most CO-related illnesses and deaths occur when generators are operated indoors or in partially enclosed spaces, such as basements, crawl spaces, garages, and enclosed carports. Death often occurs despite attempts to vent the generator’s exhaust gases.
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