Generators ArticleHazards Associated with Portable Generators
Over the past few years, portable generators have quickly gained in popularity. Many people have started to purchase portable generators in order to have a backup power supply in case of electrical failures. This is especially true in areas that experience severe weather conditions, like hurricanes. There are many hazards that are associated with portable generators. Many accidents that have lead to severe injuries and even death have occurred as a result of the hazards associated with portable generators. Here, you will discover many of the potential hazards that are associated with portable generators.
There are many common hazards that are associated with portable generators. These hazards include electrocution, fires, exhaust fumes resulting in poisoning from carbon monoxide, and burns. Each portable generator that is purchased new comes complete with a manual that instructs one on how to safely use and maintain the equipment. It is very important to only purchase new generators and to carefully review the owner manual to ensure that you understand how to properly run the machine prior to setting it up and starting it for the first time.
One of the first hazards, and one of the most serious, includes poisoning from carbon monoxide. Many people refer to carbon monoxide as a silent killer. This is because a person is unable to see, taste, or touch carbon monoxide. This particular poison can be produced very quickly if a portable generator is used in an area that is confined. It is important to never use a portable generator in an enclosed area. Portable generators are to be used outdoors in an open location. They are never to be used in the home, in a shed, or in a garage. Many people feel that they are not in danger of carbon monoxide if they place a generator in an enclosed area where doors and windows are open. This is a myth.
If you are using a portable generator and you start to feel differently in any way, you should immediately get away from the machine. Some of the common symptoms that a person may experience if they are exposed to carbon monoxide are the urge to vomit, dizzy spells, or a person may start to feel extremely weak. If you start to feel any of these symptoms, it is important to get away from the machine as quickly as possible. It is also important to ensure that you get medical help as soon as you are able to. Carbon monoxide can be deadly, and dangerous.
The next potential hazard associated with portable generators includes electrical shocks. Many people use portable generators in weather conditions that include moisture, such as hurricanes. If it is necessary to use a portable generator in wet weather conditions, it is important that the machine is protected from the water, and you are protected as well. Many people may choose to purchase a canopy or build an open structure in order to protect a portable generator from moisture. The following lists some other important steps that you can take in order to avoid electrical shocks while using portable generators:
1) Use outdoor electrical cords to connect appliances and other electrical items to portable generators
2) Make sure that your hands are dry when using a portable generator
3) Do not touch an operating portable generator if there are puddles underneath
There are many hazards that are associated with portable generators. It is important that you educate yourself on the hazards that are associated with portable generators. If you are aware of the hazards that are associated with portable generators, and understand the ways to avoid them, you are sure to remain safe during use.
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