Portable Generators: Setup, Fuel, CO Safety

Objective

Operate a portable generator safely with proper placement, grounding, and fuel discipline.

Placement

• Outdoors, 6+ m from doors/windows/vents; exhaust away from openings.
• Never in garages, basements, or under windows.

Electrical

• Use transfer switch or interlock for home circuits—no “suicide cords.”
• Size loads under 80% of rated output; surge headroom matters.

Fuel

• Stabilize gasoline; store outside living areas; rotate quarterly.
• Cool before refueling; keep extinguisher nearby.

Real Example

Home ran fridge, lights, and router from a 3.5 kW unit with a transfer switch; CO alarms stayed silent with proper placement.

Checklist

• CO alarms (battery)
• Heavy‑gauge extension cords
• Fuel + stabilizer

Contingencies

• Fuel scarce → alternate days; prioritize cold chain and comms.

After‑Action

Log runtime vs. fuel use; label outlets for critical loads.

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