Ten Backup Generator Safety Tips to Help Homeowners Weather Hurricane Frances
Prepare Now to Make Life Easier When the Power Goes Out
MILWAUKEE, WI – September 10, 2004 – Homeowners may not be able to control Mother Nature, but they can take steps to offset the disruption and inconvenience she may cause by owning a backup power generator.As Florida residents recently experienced following Hurricane Charley, backup generators can help keep the lights on and the fridge cold during severe power outages.With Hurricane Frances bearing down on the Southeast, Briggs & Stratton recommends the following safety tips for generator users:
1. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s operating and instructions before running generator.
2. Engines emit carbon monoxide. DO NOT run generator in enclosed area.
3. Use your generator outdoors only, away from open windows, vents, or doors.
Never use your generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or other enclosed areas.Fumes that can kill you can build up in these areas. Using a fan and opening doors or windows does NOT provide enough fresh air.
4. Use a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector when running your generator.
5. Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable, allow engine to cool at least 2 minutes before refueling. Always use fresh gas in your generator. If you do not plan to use your generator in 30 days, stabilize the gas with fuel stabilizer.
6. Maintain your generator according to the maintenance schedule for peak performance and safety.
7. DO NOT operate the generator near combustible materials.
8. When using extension cords, be sure they are of the grounded type and are rated for the application. Coiled cords can get HOT, always uncoil cords and lay them in flat open locations.
9. If you are connecting a generator into your home electrical system, have a qualified electrician install a Power Transfer Switch. Never plug your generator directly into your home outlet.
10. Protect your generator from exposure to rain and snow. Generators produce powerful voltage; DO NOT operate under wet conditions.
To locate a Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer near you, call 1-800-233-3723. For additional information about generator selection, safe operation, and maintenance, visit www.briggsandstratton.com.
About Briggs & Stratton
Briggs & Stratton Corp. is the largest manufacturer of small, air-cooled engines for outdoor lawn & garden power equipment, generators and pressure washers. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services these products for original equipment manufacturers in over 100 countries on all seven continents.
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