With extensive power outages throughout the state, many Vermonters are firing up their portable generators for electricity.
Briggs and Stratton, manufacturer of portable generators has issued safety tips about use of the equipment.
If you use a portable generator, always operate it outside, away from doors and windows, to avoid deadly carbon monoxide.
Use a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector when running your generator.
Do not connect your generator directly into your home’s main fuse box or circuit panel.
Improperly connected generators can feed electricity back into the electrical system, endangering field personnel working to restore power.
When using extension cords, make sure they are of the grounded type and are rated for the application.
And protect the generator form exposure to rain and snow.