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  1. Your safety
  2. What to do when the power goes off
  3. Safety tips for using a portable generator

SafetyGeneratorGraphic.pngSafety tips for using a portable generator

When power lines are down, residents can restore energy to their homes or other structures by using another power source such as a portable generator. In order to operate these machines safely, it’s important that you consider all of the items in this checklist. 

How to safely set up a portable generator

  1. If it is necessary to use a portable generator, manufacturer recommendations and specifications must be strictly followed. 

  2. Contact a qualified electrician. If there are any questions regarding the operation or installation of the portable generator, a qualified electrician should be immediately contacted to assist in installation and start-up activities. 

  3. Always position the generator outside of the structure. 

  4. Turn off the power to the main breaker or fuse if water is present near electrical circuits or equipment. Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician.

The safety risks of electrical “back feed”

When using gasoline- and diesel-powered portable generators to supply power to a building, switch the main breaker or fuse on the service panel to the "off" position prior to starting the generator. This will prevent power lines from being inadvertently energized by back feed electrical energy from the generators, and help protect utility line workers or other repair workers or people in neighboring buildings from possible electrocution.

If the generator is plugged into a household circuit without turning the main breaker to the “off” position or removing the main fuse, the electrical current could reverse, go back through the circuit to the outside power grid, and energize power lines or electrical systems in other buildings to at or near their original voltage without the knowledge of utility or other workers.

The problem of back feed in electrical energy is a potential risk for electrical energy workers. Electrocutions are the fifth leading cause of all reported occupational deaths. Following the safety guidelines below can reduce this risk.

Carbon monoxide poisoning and portable generators

Generator use is also a major cause of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, which can be fatal. Because gas-powered generators burn fuel, similarly to your car, it produces toxic exhaust fumes that contain large quantities of carbon monoxide. Generators should only be used in well-ventilated areas.

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Associated Electric Cooperative Inc.

Mailing address:
P.O. Box 754
Springfield, MO 65801-0754

Tel. 417-881-1204
Email. membersfirst@aeci.org

About Us

Even though your electric cooperative is locally owned and committed to your local community, we are part of something bigger too. We are a network of 51 distribution cooperatives in Missouri, southern Iowa and northeastern Oklahoma, serving 935,000 member homes, farms and businesses. We receive power generation through six regional Generation and Transmission (G&T) cooperatives and one collective G&T, Associated Electric Cooperative.

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©2022 Members First. Cooperatives put members first every day.

  • It's all you
    • Activities for kids
    • Reliable electricity
    • For the good of all
    • Ownership
    • Cooperative principles
    • New members
    • Proud to sponsor kids' activities
    • Co-op month
  • Your money
    • Solar energy information
    • Penny power
    • Capital credits
    • Beneficial electrification
    • Save energy, save money
    • Solar 101
    • Member contests
  • Your safety
    • Indoor electrical safety
    • Outdoor electrical safety
    • Safety for kids
    • Outage safety
    • Power line hazards and cars
  • Your community
    • Local control
    • Personal service
    • Your community
    • Thank a lineworker
  • Balanced generation
    • Epic Failure a Cautionary Tale
    • Diverse energy mix
    • Reliable power
    • Balanced generation summary
  • Podcast
  • Blog
  • About us