Power Generator Hazard Lawyer

Power generators can provide temporary electric power during an outage. They can be especially useful to families living in areas that experience severe weather frequently, and to professionals who engage in power-critical activities. But when not used properly, power generators can become a hazard, rather than the providers of safety and comfort during a potential crisis.

Many consumers are not aware that many power generators emit carbon monoxide (CO), often in quantities similar to that in the exhaust of an automobile engine. In fact, most of the power generator related deaths reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) are due to carbon monoxide poisoning from power generators used indoors or in partially enclosed spaces. The CPSC received 222 reports of deaths from CO poisoning related to portable power generators from 2000 to 2005.

The CPSC has argued that current warning labels on power generators do not adequately advise users on how to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. It has recommended a product warning label to be affixed to the devices and is considering additional regulatory alternatives.

The following safety tips address potential electrical and fire hazards, as well as CO hazards associated with power generators:

• Follow the instructions that came with your power generator.
• Do not use a generator indoors or in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces.
• CO is invisible, odorless and can rapidly lead to incapacitation or death. If you start feeling dizzy, weak or sick while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
• Never use a power generator indoors, including basements, crawl spaces, garages, or partially enclosed areas. Using fans or opening doors and windows does not prevent CO buildup.
• Install certified, battery-operated (or with battery backup) CO alarms in your home.
• Test your CO alarms frequently and replace dead batteries.
• Keep the generator dry. Do not operate it in rain or wet conditions. Use it on a dry surface under an open but covered site. Make sure your hands are dry before touching the generator.
• Plug appliances directly into the generator. If you use an extension cord, make sure it is outdoor-rated in amps or watts at least equal to that of the sum of the loads of the appliances that are connected. Make sure that the cord is free of tears or cuts and that the plug has all three prongs.
• Don't try to power the house by "backfeeding" (plugging the generator into a wall outlet). Backfeeding bypasses some household circuit protection devices and poses an electrocution risk to yourself, your neighbors and to utility workers.
• If you wish to connect the generator to the house wiring, see if your utility company can install a power transfer switch or have a qualified electrician install the proper equipment in compliance with local electrical codes.
• Portable power generators may become overloaded, overheat and fail, even if properly connected. A permanently installed stationary generator may be better suited for providing backup power to a home.
• Fuel for your generator, or for that matter all flammable liquids, should be stored outside of living areas in non-glass, properly labeled safety containers. They should also not be stored near fuel burning appliances such as water heaters.
• Let the generator cool down before refueling. Hot engine parts can ignite spilled fuel.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a power generator-related accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Even if the injured party did not heed all of the safety tips listed above, the injuries may be as the result of a dangerous or defective power generator. Consider consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney to understand your legal rights and have your case fully assessed

.