As Sandy approaches New Jersey the likelihood of homeowners having to power up their newly purchased generators is high. For many it will be their first time using a generator, and even those seasoned veterans who have weathered many storms with one, may not know all the important safety information.

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) issued a warning today to residents regarding the potential dangers of portable generators, specifically with regard to the possible of "backfeeding." Here's their safety statement.

Portable generators, widely used when power lines are down, can prove fatal to homeowners, utility workers and even your neighbors when used improperly. A generator connected to a home's wiring or plugged into a regular household outlet can cause ‘backfeeding’ along power lines and electrocute anyone who comes in contact with them – even if the line seems dead.

 

It happens when a portable generator is connected directly to the home’s wiring without having a functional transfer switch. Without a transfer switch, a portable generator’s electricity can be sent back into the power grid from your house. This will energize the utility’s power lines on the street and poses an electrocution hazard for those who may not know that the voltage is present on the shared lines.

 

The general public – as well as first responders – should assume that all power lines are energized and the risk of electrocution is high if proper measures are not observed.

 

“Even though power may be out in your immediate area, improperly connected portable generators are capable of ‘backfeeding’ power lines thought to be inactive,” said Commissioner Constable. “In addition, as the utility’s power is restored, your portable generator and house wiring may be severely damaged from improper usage.”

 

Portable Generator Safety Tips:

· Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring unless your home has been wired for generator use. This can cause backfeeding along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including lineworkers making repairs. Have a licensed electrician install the equipment necessary to safely connect emergency generators to your home.

· Operate outdoors only, never in enclosed spaces.

· Always plug appliances directly into generators. Connecting the generator to your home’s circuits or wiring must be done by a qualified, licensed electrician who will install a transfer switch to prevent backfeeding.

· Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords. Make sure extension cords are free of cuts or tears and the plug has three prongs. Overloaded cords can cause fires or equipment damage.

· Ensure your generator is properly grounded.

· Never overload a generator. A portable generator should only be used when necessary to power essential equipment or appliances.

· Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting it down.

· Keep the generator dry. Operate it on a dry surface under an open structure.

· Always have a fully charged fire extinguisher nearby.

· Never fuel a generator while it is operating.

· Read and adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation. Never cut corners when it comes to safety.

 

You can share this information on your facebook page to help get the information out there. Just click the facebook icon below. Visit our Hurricane Sandy page for up to the minute information, and if the power goes out, we'll still be on air so make sure you have extra batteries for your portable radio and download RadioPup to your phone. Stay safe everyone!

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