Portable Generators and Carbon Monoxide: Safety First

Portable generators can be lifesavers during power outages and weather-related emergencies, providing much-needed electricity for essentials like refrigerators, sump pumps, and medical equipment. However, these convenient backup power sources also pose serious risks of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning if not used properly. CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can quickly build up to deadly levels. Tragically, portable generators cause hundreds of CO deaths each year.

To keep your family safe, follow these critical safety tips when operating a portable generator:

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1. Always Operate Generators Outdoors

Never use a generator inside homes, garages, basements, crawlspaces, or any enclosed or partially-enclosed area. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup.
CPSC recommends placing generators a distance of at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents, with exhaust directed away from the home.

2. Install Battery-Operated CO Alarms

Install battery-operated or battery back-up CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.
Test CO alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.

3. Know the Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
If you feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY and call 911.

4. Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation and maintenance.
Don’t overload the generator or operate it in wet conditions unless it’s rated for outdoor use.

When shopping for a new portable generator, look for models that comply with the latest ANSI/PGMA G300 safety standards. Some newer models include built-in CO sensors that automatically shut off the engine if CO builds up to dangerous levels. While this is an important safety feature, it’s not a substitute for proper generator placement outdoors away from the home.

It’s especially critical to avoid operating a generator in an attached garage, even with the garage door open. “It’s foreseeable that a homeowner could end up using a generator in an attached garage with the garage door open,” says John Galeotafiore, an associate director of product testing at Consumer Reports. However, this is extremely dangerous, as CO can still build up to hazardous levels and seep into the house.

If your CO alarm does go off, immediately move everyone (including pets) outside to fresh air and call 911. Do not go back inside until emergency responders have given the all-clear. Firefighters will need to take CO readings to locate the source of the leak, so don’t open windows, which could ventilate the CO and give a false low reading.

Even if CO poisoning isn’t fatal, it can still cause serious long-term health effects. Survivors may suffer from permanent brain damage, blindness, hearing loss, anxiety, depression, memory problems, and other neurological and psychological issues.

5. Regularly inspect and maintain your generator to ensure it runs properly and safely.

Portable generators require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure they function safely.

The Bottom Line

Portable generators can be invaluable during power outages, but they must be used safely to avoid potentially deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. Always operate generators outdoors at least 20 feet from the home, install CO alarms, and know the symptoms of CO exposure. When shopping for a generator, choose a model that meets the latest safety standards. Keep current on proper maintenance procedures. By following these precautions, you can protect your family from the “silent killer” of carbon monoxide.

For more information on portable generator safety, visit:

Consumer Product Safety Commission: www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Carbon-Monoxide-Information-Center/Generators.
Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association: www.pgmaonline.com.