Generator Safety

Use that generator wisely!

It's difficult, perhaps almost impossible, to live without electricity in today's world. That's why Capital Electric does everything possible to keep the lights on and to restore service as soon as possible when there is an outage.

During an unexpected outage, many electric cooperative members rely on an electricity generator until the main power supply is restored. However, if you have a standby electricity generator, remember that it is vital to follow proper operating procedures.

Know your generator! Read and follow all the information on installation, safety and maintenance.
First turn off the main power switch or breaker in your home before you use the generator.
Don't overload the generator. It should be used only when necessary, and only to power essential equipment.

Generator cause/effect/prevention situations

Cause:
If you attempt to connect the generator directly to the electrical system of any building.

Effect:
You can kill or injure a person repairing service lines. The electricity you generate will backfeed through the building's electrical system to the outside utility lines. Attempting to connect to the incoming utility service could result in electrocution.

Prevention:
A qualified, licensed electrician must install a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch to connect the generator to a building's electrical system. This is required by the National Electrical Code. A minimum of 10-gauge wiring must be used.

Cause:
Fair to adequately ground the generator's electrical system.

Effect:
The entire generator could become electrically charged and cause electrocution.

Prevention:
Make sure the unit is connected to an appropriate electrical ground, in accordance with the National Electric Code. Follow instructions supplied with the generator.

Cause:
Operate the generator in rain, wet, icy or flooded conditions.

Effect:
Water conducts electricity. If water comes into contact with electricity to the generator, it will cause an electrical shock.

Prevention:
Operate the generator in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area. Make sure your hands are dry.

Cause:
Use worn, damaged, undersized or ungrounded extension cords.

Effect:
Contact with worn or damaged extension cords could cause electrocution. Undersized extension cords could overheat wires or attached items, resulting in fire. Use of ungrounded cords could prevent operation of circuit breakers and result in electrical shock.

Prevention:
Inspect extension cords before use and replace with new if required. Follow instructions uspplied with your unit.

If you have additional questions about using a generator, contact us at Capital Electric. We will work with you to make sure your generator is used properly and safely.