Portable Generator Safety Tips from the Pros Who Know Generators

1. Portable Generator Safety Tips from the Pros Who Know Generators Getting off the grid has become easier for RV owners and campers, thanks to the portable generator. Even if you go to remote areas, you can get sufficient supply of electricity that you need to power up devices and portable kitchen appliances. But just like anything that generates electricity, a portable generator poses safety risks too. If you run one carelessly and mindlessly, you can experience mishaps such as generator malfunction, appliances problems, CO poisoning, shocks, electrocution, and even fire. How do you prevent these from happening? According to the pros, here are the following safety precautions that you must practice when using a portable generator: Do not set-up the generator in an enclosed area Generators emit carbon monoxide, which is a dangerous, odorless, and undetectable gas that is considered a silent killer. This is why it's not advisable to set-up your portable generator indoors or in any other enclosed space. Place the portable generator away from the RV Distance the portable generator about five to ten meters away from the RV. Place it on a flat and stable surface. Make sure that its exhaust is pointing towards opposite direction. Follow the manufacturer's instructions Portable generators are not all created equally even though they all function the same way or run using the same petrol. Before operating yours, take time to read manufacturer's instructions on how to set it up properly. Don't overload your generator Even portable generators from the best brands can also get damaged when they are overloaded. Never plug-in too many appliances at once under any circumstance. Otherwise, you will risk damaging your appliances. This can also lead to short circuit and fire. Invest in high-quality power cords Poor power cords can go wrong in an instant. For your safety, use only high-quality power cords that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Run it dry Do not run the portable generatorduring rain to avoid electrocution. If you need to because of an outage, then cover it first, making sure that there is an ample space for the exhaust. Install a transfer switch If you are using a portable generator for your home, then you should install a transfer switch. Though it is not a requirement, it's a good safety precaution to prevent the components of your generator or your appliances from burning.