WAUKESHA, Wis., Nov. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Earlier this week, Hurricane Sandy ravaged the coast and knocked out power for more than 8.2 million homeowners in 22 states. Even five days after the storm, more than 3 million homeowners are still without power.

Blackouts caused by Hurricane Sandy have prompted homeowners throughout the storm-struck East Coast to turn to backup power. Improper use of portable generators has sickened dozens and killed at least 10 people. To keep your homes and families safe from carbon monoxide poisoning, Generac recommends the following portable generator safety tips:

Carbon Monoxide and Ventilation

• Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes. Exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a deadly poison gas you cannot see or smell.
• Never run a generator indoors or in partly enclosed areas such as garages.
• Only use outdoors and far from windows, doors, vents, crawl spaces and in an area where adequate ventilation is available and will not accumulate deadly exhaust gas.
• Using a fan or opening doors and windows will not provide sufficient ventilation.
• It is recommended that you install battery operated Carbon Monoxide alarms/detectors indoors according to manufacturer's instructions / recommendations.

Gasoline, Fueling and Burn Safety

• Gasoline is extremely flammable and explosive.
• If tank is over-filled, fuel can overflow onto a hot engine and cause fire or explosion.
• Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always allow room for fuel expansion.
• Never add fuel while unit is running or hot. Allow generator and engine to cool entirely before adding fuel.
• Never store a generator with fuel in the tank where gasoline vapors might reach an open flame, spark or pilot light.
• Do not smoke near fuel or generator.
• Many generator parts are hot enough to burn you during operation and while the generator is cooling after turning off.  Avoid coming into contact with a hot generator.

Electrocution Hazard and Electrical Shock Hazards

• Connecting a portable electric generator directly to your household wiring can be deadly to you and others.  A generator that is directly connected to your home's wiring can 'back feed' onto the power lines connected to your home and injure neighbors or utility workers.
• Do not connect your generator directly to your home's wiring or into a regular household outlet. 
• Always start or stop the generator only when no electrical loads are connected.
• Overloading your generator can seriously damage your valuable appliances and electronics.  Do not overload the generator.  Do not operate more appliances and equipment than the output rating of the generator. Prioritize your needs. A portable electric generator should be used only when necessary, and only to power essential equipment. 
• Use the proper power cords.  Plug individual appliances into the generator using heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords with a wire gauge adequate for the appliance load. Overloaded cords can cause fires or equipment damage. Do not use extension cords with exposed wires or worn shielding.
• Do not operate the generator in wet conditions such as rain or snow.  
• The generator must be properly grounded. If the generator is not grounded, you run the risk of electrocution. We strongly recommend that you check and adhere to all applicable federal, state and local regulations relating to grounding.

Generator Placement and Operation

• Keep children away from portable generators at all times.
• Allow at least five feet of clearance on all sides of the generator when operating.
• Generators can be used during a wide variety of weather temperatures, but should be protected from the elements when not in use to prevent shorting and rusting.
• Operate the generator only on level surfaces and where it will not be exposed to excessive moisture, dirt, dust or corrosive vapors.
• Inspect the generator regularly and contact the nearest authorized dealer for parts needing repair or replacement.
• Always disconnect the spark plug wire and place the wire where it cannot contact the spark plug to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs to the generator.

Generac reminds all homeowners to always read the Owner's Manual and instructions prior to use. Carefully follow all instructions and warnings in order to safely start and operate the generator; and do not cut corners when it comes to safety.

For more information on portable and automatic backup generators, stop by your local Generac dealer or visit www.generac.com.

About Generac
Since 1959, Generac has been a leading designer and manufacturer of a wide range of generators and other engine powered products.  As a leader in power equipment serving residential, light commercial, industrial and construction markets, Generac's products are available through a broad network of independent dealers, retailers, wholesalers and equipment rental companies.  The company markets and distributes its products primarily under its Generac and Magnum brand names. Generac is committed to developing a long-term vision that promotes environmentally responsible products, processes and partnerships and strives to be a positive contributor of sustainable growth in the power equipment industry. For more information on Generac, please visit http://www.Generac.com. Follow Generac on Twitter @generacpowersys. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/generacpowersystems. For more information on Magnum, please visit http://www.m-p-llc.com/

SOURCE Generac

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