Use Backup Generators Safely

Use backup generators safely When severe weather knocks out electricity, many people turn to portable generators to run appliances and lights.

But remember:

Choose a generator rated for “home standby use” with automatic voltage regulation.
If you connect your generator to house wiring, have an electrician install a transfer switch. This ensures that power flows to the house and not back to power lines.
Never plug a generator into a household outlet because it can send electricity back through the meter to downed power lines.
Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, so always run your generator outside.

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