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Generator Safety

safety-generator1.jpg

When used correctly, generators are a sound, short-term solution to a power outage. But if the proper precautions aren’t taken, generators can be deadly to the people using them and to linemen working to restore power.

STEPS TO SAFETY

Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It should cover general safety guidelines as well as procedures that apply specifically to your model.

Don't connect a generator directly to their home’s wiring. It can backfeed power into our distribution lines. Our transformers will step-up that energy, increasing it by thousands of volts. And that’s more than enough to injure or kill a lineman who’s working on that system, even if he’s a long way from your home.

The only safe way to connect a generator to your home’s existing wiring is to hire a licensed electrical contractor to install a double-throw transfer switch. The switch isolates your household, forming a break between the power coming from your generator and the utility’s distribution system. 

Never plug a generator into a household outlet. That can also backfeed power into the distribution system, energize power lines and injure family members, neighbors or linemen.

Generators also produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless and deadly gas. Never use your generator indoors or in an attached garage. Run it outdoors in a well-ventilated, dry area, far away from air intakes to your home.
Homeowners should plug individual appliances into portable generators using heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords with a wire gauge suitable for the appliance load.

All the standard cord precautions apply. Don’t use extension cords with exposed wires or worn insulation. Make sure the cords don’t present a tripping hazard, and don’t run them under rugs where heat could build up and start a fire. Be selective with what you plug into your generator. Overloaded cords can cause fires and damage appliances.

You also need to make sure your generator is properly grounded.

Generators get very hot while they’re running. They can deliver a nasty burn. Remind kids and visitors to stay clear of them.

TRANSFER SWITCH

We require a transfer switch for any back-up or co-generation power source, including gas and diesel powered generators, solar photovoltaic arrays, and wind turbines. Consult an electrician to ensure the proper sized wire is used for the generator you’ve chosen. All transfer switches must be wired to follow National Electric Safety Code, as well as local codes
 

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ABOUT US

Based in Greenville, Ill., Southwestern Electric is a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative serving 23,000 residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial members in 11 counties along the I-70 corridor between St. Louis, Mo., and Effingham, Ill.

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Southwestern Electric is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

RESOURCES

Southwestern Electric is a member-focused, not-for-profit utility. Our bylaws guide our business and daily operations. As your accountable energy partner, our mission is to improve the lives of the people and communities we serve.

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CONTACT US

You can reach us at (800) 637-8667. We respond to outage calls around the clock. Our office hours are Mon - Fri., 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

You're welcome to visit our office at:

525 US Route 40
Greenville, IL 62246

©2023 Southwestern Electric Cooperative. Your Accountable Energy Partner.

  • Home
  • Your Service
    • Apply For Service
    • Paying Your Bill
    • Payment Programs
    • Electric Rates
    • Forms Library
    • Member Guide
    • The SWEC IL App
    • Capital Credits
  • Energy Information
    • Energy Assistance
    • Technology Rebates
    • ERC Loans
    • Solar Energy
  • Electric Vehicles
    • Discover The EV Advantage
    • EV Owner Survey
    • EV Charger Rebates
  • Community
    • Operation Round Up
    • Scholarships
    • Economic Development
  • News & Information
    • News Releases
    • Outage Information
      • If You Lose Power
      • Outage Map
      • Outage Safety
      • How We Restore Your Power
    • The Southwestern
    • Board Meeting Minutes
    • Video
  • Safety
    • Indoor Electrical Safety
    • Outdoor Electrical Safety
    • Generator Safety
    • Storm Safety
    • Cyber Security
  • About Us
    • Mission & Management
    • Financial Information
    • Careers
    • Service Area
    • Contact Us