Projected wind storm and power outages
Generator safety tips
Every year during widespread power outages there are unfortunate cases of people injured or even killed due to improper use and placement of generators. In preparation for projected wind storms, the King County Office of Emergency Management urges the following safety tips on the use of generators:
- The generator MUST be kept outdoors while running;
- DO NOT refuel the generator while it is running;
- If fuel is accidentally spilled in close proximity to the generator, make sure that the fuel spill is cleaned up before restarting the generator;
- Have an ABC Fire Extinguisher immediately available;
- Do not plug your generator into a household outlet. Power may back-feed and injure people working to restore power in your neighborhood;
- Be certain that the exhaust and/or muffler is kept away from, and is pointed away from, any combustible material;
- Be careful not to overload the electrical capacity of the generator when connecting to household appliances; and
- When using extension cords to connect the generator to household appliances, make sure that exhaust cannot enter the house at the same point extension cords come in.
If power is out, the use of flashlights instead of candles is recommended. If candles are the only option, do not leave candles unattended with children or pets. Families are also encouraged to have disaster supply kit at home and in their car with a minimum of three days worth of food, one gallon of water per person per day and including a battery-operated radio, flashlight, batteries, and blankets. Additionally, have special needs items stored such as medications for three days, an extra set of eyeglasses, and food/ water/leash for your pet. For more information on disaster kits, visit www.3days3ways.org.