sAFETY

Once you have purchased the proper generator, follow these tips from Safe Electricity to properly operate your generator:

• Read and follow all manufacturer operating instructions to properly ground the generator. Be sure you understand them before hooking up the generator.
• Never operate a generator in a confined area, such as a garage. Generators can produce numerous gases, including toxic and deadly carbon monoxide. They require proper ventilation.
• Generators pose electrical risks especially when operated in wet conditions. Use a generator only when necessary when the weather creates wet or moist conditions. Protect the generator by operating it under an open, canopy-like structure on a dry surface where water cannot form puddles or drain under it. Always ensure that your hands are dry before touching the generator.
• When you refuel the generator, make sure the engine is cool to prevent a fire, should the tank overflow.
• There should be nothing plugged into the generator when you turn it on. This prevents a surge from damaging your generator and appliances.
• Be sure to keep children and pets away from the generator, which could burn them.
• Shut down the generator properly. Before shutting down a generator, turn off and unplug all appliances and equipment being powered by the generator.
• Remember maintenance between uses. It is also a good idea to inspect the fuel and oil filters, spark plug, oil level and fuel quality and to start the generator on a regular basis before an emergency situation occurs.

Remember, electricity always seeks a path to the ground. If you absolutely must exit your vehicle because it is on fire, minimize the possibility for a strong electric shock: Jump clear of the vehicle with both feet together, avoiding contact with both the car and the ground at the same time. Then, shuffle away from the car with small steps. Be sure to keep your feet together and on the ground at all times. 

We’re connecting you to safety, because we care about your well-being. Sharing these lifesaving tips could help others, too.

• Think about the day’s work, especially the projects near power lines.
• Protect yourself and workers by keeping farm equipment at least 10 feet away from power lines in all directions at all times.
• Use a spotter when moving or raising tall equipment and loads. A power line can be closer than it looks. Someone watching to keep equipment far away from power lines could save a life.
• Lower equipment extensions, portable augers or elevators to their lowest possible level before moving or transporting them. This lessens the possibility that wind, uneven ground and shifting weight causes you to lose control of equipment and make contact with power lines.
• Notice height differences when loading and transporting larger modern tractors with higher antennas.
• Call your utility to repair, raise or move sagging power lines on or near your property. Never attempt to do this yourself.
• Break up bridged grain inside and around bins with wood poles or other safe material. Do not use metal poles, which are electrocution hazards.
• Be careful not to raise ladders, poles and rods into power lines. Also, remember that non-metallic materials, such as lumber, tree limbs, tires, ropes and hay can also conduct electricity.
• Use qualified electricians for work on farm electrical systems, like drying equipment.
• Wait for utility workers to de-energize a power line and confirm that it’s safe for you to exit if you are on equipment that contacts a power line. You could receive a fatal shock if you step off the equipment, because you become the electricity’s path to ground. If the vehicle is on fire and you must exit, place both feet together and jump clear of the vehicle. Then, shuffle away from the vehicle, keeping your feet together and on the ground to prevent current flow through your body.
• Stop and wait until you are well rested to perform electrical work. Accidents are more likely to happen if you’re tired after working for long hours or in extreme temperatures.