Safe use of portable generators during power outages

Portable electric generators offer great benefits when outages affect your home. Last year's storm have made many Wiregrass residents more aware of preparing for emergencies. However, generators also must be connected and operated properly, or they can be hazardous to the public and the line crews working to restore power. Last year following Hurricane Katrina, a lineworker in Alabama lost his life due to the improper hook up of a generator. Whether we are supplying electricity to a consumer or it is back-feeding on our line, electricity knows no direction. Please help us keep all line workers safe.

Wiregrass Electric offers these tips when connecting and operating portable generators during power outages:

• Do it right - Always read and understand the operating and maintenance manuals before using any generator, even if it takes a few extra minutes during emergencies. Make sure all family members and employees who operate the generator understand the rules, too.
• Flip the big one - Even if your home or business has temporarily lost electric service, turn off the main power switch before operating the generator. You may also wish to unplug all sensitive electronic equipment. Make sure that all generators are hooked up past the point of your main breaker, unless you have the proper switching equipment installed.
• A huge no-no - Never attempt to wire the building's electrical system into a generator. Doing so can cause power to "backfeed" through the electric meter and into the electric utility's distribution system, where lineworkers and others may be attempting to restore service. Anyone who comes in contact with an energized wire - whether it's standing or downed - can be injured or even killed.
• Don't blow it, man - Prioritize your electrical needs. Don't overload the generator with too many appliances and excessive power demand. See the unit's manual for its specific wattage limitations; if the manual is unavailable, check the body of the generator for indications. Keep in mind that refrigerators and freezers may require 500-700 watts of power each.
• Never over-extend yourself - Use extension cords sparingly, if at all, with a generator. If possible, plug the appliance or electrical equipment directly into the generator. If you must use an extension cord, use a heavy duty, properly grounded extension cord. Make sure that extension cords are not frayed or worn. And make sure it's adequately sized to handle the power, or else it could start a fire. Place cords out of the way to prevent tripping hazards but, as with all extension cords, do not cover them with rugs or anything else.
• Let it breathe - Provide adequate ventilation for the exhaust from a generator, which contains carbon monoxide, an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly. It is safest to run the generator outdoors. Operating one in attached garages or carports, even with open doors or windows, can allow toxic fumes to migrate into the building. Provide a cooling airflow for the generator.
• No-fooling refueling - Don't attempt to refill the generator's fuel tank while it is running. Gasoline is highly flammable. Use only approved containers for storing it. Give time for the generator to cool down before refueling.
• Play keep-away - Keep kids away from the generator. Keep them away from the gasoline, too.

For your safety .... the safety of neighbors, and the safety of Wiregrass Electric employees working to restore electricity do not attempt to connect your generator to your home wiring. If you have any doubts about how to properly use a portable electric generator, contact the manufacturer or a licensed electrician for assistance.

If you do plan to attach a generator to your home electrical system, follow the diagram below to install a double throw transfer switch:

ATTACHING A GENERATOR TO YOUR HOME ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The safest way to utilize a generator in your home is to plug appliances directly into your generator by using extension cords. However, a generator can be attached to in-home circuits using a manual or automatic double-throw transfer switch. This is the ONLY safe way to attach a generator to your home circuits. The transfer switch used should be sized to match the service of your home since power will be passing through it regardless of switch position.

Wiregrass Electric offers information and assistance to anyone who may have questions about the installation and use of a portable generator. Consumers with concerns about the use of a generator may call the cooperative, (334) 588-2223, (800) 239-4602.