Read these tips to ensure you keep your family safe when operating it.

Before you start:

• Read and follow the generator owner’s manual. If you can’t find it, most manufacturers have them available on their website.
• Be sure the generator has been properly maintained.
• Store your fuel outdoors.
• Use good condition electrical cords, rated for the electrical current required by your connected devices.
• Do not leave excessive lengths of cord coiled while carrying current. This can cause a fire!
• If you need to make any wiring modifications, be sure to use a qualified, licensed electrician.
• Call your local electrician if you have any questions.
• Do not operate a generator near combustible materials or expose it to water or rain.

Here are some basics that you should ALWAYS do:

• Keep children away from a running generator.
• Run a generator in an open, well ventilated area. Generator engines emit deadly carbon monoxide fumes that are odorless and can kill.
• If you are using a house generator, use an isolation device (aka transfer switch) between your generator and Lakeland Electric’s service conductor.
• If you are using a portable generator, plug your appliances and other devices directly into the generator. DO NOT connect your portable generator directly into your home's circuits. Connecting your portable generator to your home’s circuits may cause power to flow to outside lines (aka electrical back feed) into Lakeland Electric’s power distribution system that can cause serious injury or death to Lakeland Electric’s repair personnel. 
• Only refuel a generator after allowing time for it to cool. Never refuel a generator while it is running.
• Never leave a running generator unattended.