PAWNEE, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Many of us will be buying generators soon. But, used improperly, they pose a serious hazard,

Jake Dukett (pictured), Ameren’s gas public awareness supervisor, says with a gas-powered unit, use it away from the house in a well-ventilated area. This will keep carbon monoxide out of the house. Dukett says area fire departments have already responded this year to calls in which there’s been a carbon monoxide event.

As for electric-powered generators, avoid what’s called backfeed. “Maybe you have a little bitty 3000-watt generator sitting outside,” says Dukett. “Not a whole lot, but that small generator can go through your house system, go out onto your service line, and hits that transformer. Just that little 3000-watt generator can step that back up to primary voltage.”

Ameren, in a news release, outlined generator safety tips:

  • Never connect a generator directly to a wall outlet.
  • Follow all manufacturer instructions.
  • Use properly rated extension cords to run power directly from the generator outlets to individual appliances, bypassing home wiring.
  • Have a qualified electrician install a transfer switch or generator interlock kit.
  • Ensure customer-owned generation equipment complies with applicable electrical codes and safety requirements.
  • Properly maintain generators, solar systems and battery storage equipment.

Dukett demonstrated generator safety Thursday morning for reporters at the utility’s Pawnee training center.