Generators can provide comfort, safety and security during power outages. They can be used in two ways: they can be installed permanently or used temporarily during outages. In either case, you must install the generator properly to protect electrical workers, your family and your property.

Why generators must be properly installed:

• They can "backfeed" into the electric utility system and energize dead lines, causing serious injury to electrical workers who may be working on those lines or citizens who may accidentally contact fallen lines.
• They can create wiring hazards and exhaust fumes that can injure you and your family.
• Your risk damaging your generator. Electrical workers use a grounding system to protect themselves that will damage an improperly installed generator. Also, when power is restored to the electrical system it will feed into your home or business and burn out your generator, sometimes irreparably.

Instructions on how to properly install a generator are included when you buy one and you should read them carefully before using your generator. If you have questions, you can call us at (253) 502-8377.

Follow these safety considerations to operate your portable generator safely. These tips are not a replacement for reading all your manufacturer's instructions, written specifically for your generator.

CONNECTIONS

• Never run electrical cords under rugs where heat might build up or damage to cords may go unnoticed.
• Keep cords out of the way so they don't present a tripping hazard, especially in dimly lit doorways.
• Do not operate a generator with a faulty ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). You risk electric shock.
• Be sure that the total electricity power load on your generator does not exceed the manufacturer's rated load.

LOCATION

• Do not operate your portable generator indoors. Exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon monoxide.
• Provide adequate ventilation during generator operation.
• Keep your generator dry. Operating the generator in rain or snow, or near water, can lead to death or serious injury.
• Keep the generator away from buildings and other equipment during operation
• Do not enclose the generator in any structure.
• Operate your generator on a firm, level surface.
• Keep flammable materials away from the generator.

FUEL

• Use fresh, clean fuel.
• Stop engine before refueling.
• Add fuel to your generator in a well-ventilated area. Do not smoke or allow flames or sparks where the generator is refueled or where fuel is stored.
• Fuel vapors are flammable and may ignite after the engine is started. GBe sure to clean up any spilled fuel before you start the generator.
• Check for fuel leaks before, during and after operation.

OTHER

• Read your owner's manual! Generators are capable of providing enough electrical power to cause a serious injury or death if misused.
• Make sure all safety labels that come with your generator stay permanently affixed to the generator.
• Know how to stop the generator quickly in an emergency. Make sure other adults in the household know how to stop the generator quickly.
• The muffler becomes hot during operation and may remain hot for a while after shutdown.
• Test the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) before each use. If the test fails, do not use your generator, see your generator dealer.