• Annual Meeting
• Safety Education
• Electrical Safety
• Emergency Generator Safety
• Power Line Safety Act
• Hurricane Preparedness Guide
• Operation Round-Up
• Lights On
• Energy Conservation

Emergency Generator Safety

During hurricane season, many people prepare for the possibility of extended power outages by purchasing and installing small, gasoline-powered portable electric generators. While generators are useful tools, if not used properly, they can be very dangerous devices. Before using any portable generator, remember to read the user's manual and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

The best way to use these generators is to install them safely and to use only as much power as is absolutely necessary. For example, if you only need to provide electricity to your refrigerator and a few lights during an outage, the simplest and safest way is to run an extension cord of the correct gauge directly from the generator to the appliance.

It is impractical, and potentially dangerous, to try to supply power to the entire house with a portable generator. Unless certain switches have been installed or a certified electrician has installed the generator, the hookup could be dangerous to both you and the SLEMCO employees trying to restore power. The generator itself may even be damaged when power is restored if it has been improperly installed.

Any installation that requires a direct connection to electrical equipment requires a certified electrician. The safety benefits and peace of mind for your family will be well worth the cost.