KVFD warns residents regarding generator use

By Kirbyville VFD Assistant Chief Steven Sowder

Folks, with the weather that has hit us and lack of power in town, please be careful if you're using a generator.

If your generator is a portable version, and not wired through an automatic switch box, please pay heed to some simple safety guidelines:

1. Make sure your main breaker is turned off so that you don't back feed power to the transformer and then on to the main transmission lines. Your generator may be only putting out 110/220 VAC, but once it goes back through the transformer, the voltage will be at several thousand volts. Please protect our electrical lineman and MAKE SURE YOUR MAIN Breaker is OFF.

2. Don't run your portable generator inside of any structure. A lot of folks will run one in their garage, making it a hazardous breathing environment. Exhaust gases will build up and possibly seep into the house, exposing you to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide poisoning typically occurs from breathing in carbon monoxide at excessive levels. Symptoms are often described as "flu-like" and commonly include headache, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Large exposures can result in loss of consciousness, arrhythmias, seizures, or death. It’s similar to leaving your car running in a closed garage. That’s why it is so important to run them in open outdoor spaces. More than 80 consumers die each year from CO poisoning caused by portable generators. Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.

2. Keep it dry

When your run your portable generator, be sure to keep it dry. That means not to run it while it’s raining unless you have properly covered and vented it.

3. Don’t re-fuel it when it’s running

Before refueling your generator, make sure you turn it off and have let it cool a little before pouring the gas in it–similar to when you fill up your car’s gasoline tank.

4. Use your generator outlets properly

You can plug your appliances directly into your generator; however, if you’re using an extension cord, make sure it’s rated in watts or amps and is heavy duty free of fray’s.

5. A generator will get hot (exhaust and other areas) while running. Please make sure you have the generator placed in a location that will give it plenty of space.

When in doubt, contact someone that knows. Don't take any chances with your lives, because it could be life threatening if used improperly.