US EditionHow to safely use a generator at home when the power goes out
South Carolina officials advise using portable generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from homes to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, which causes over 400 U.S. deaths annually, CDC reports.
- As South Carolina prepares for freezing weather, Senior Deputy State Fire Marshal Chris Sewell warned residents about generator risks after two recent deaths.
- Officials note that generators emit carbon monoxide that can be deadly, according to federal data showing the CDC estimates more than 400 annual deaths and at least 770 from portable generators between 2011 and 2021.
- Place generators outdoors at least 20 feet from doors and windows with exhaust pointed away, install battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms, use heavy-duty cords, and never connect generators to home wiring without a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician.
- After a fatal North Carolina incident, County Coroner Greg Shore reiterated that generators must never be used indoors, officials warned that back‑feeding can electrocute linemen, and anyone with symptoms should call 911 immediately.
- At local stores, owners say generator demand has surged and stock is running thin; Blakeney Hardware sold eight generators in a day with only one left, though a small shipment may arrive soon, while officials note solar paired with battery storage is a safer backup option.
23 Articles
23 Articles
Local Fire Department Urges Winter Generator Safety
MT. VERNON, Ind. (WEVV) — As winter storms increase the risk of power outages, the Mt. Vernon Fire Department is reminding residents to follow critical safety guidelines when using portable generators to prevent fires and deadly carbon monoxide exposure.
Important Winter safety tips
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY)– As temperatures dip, power can go out, and some people may be planning to use alternative sources of heat like generators to provide backup power. According to the Portable Generator Manufacturer’s Association, using a generator inside your home is dangerous due to the accumulation of carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases. The gases can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, unconsciousness, or death. Toni Scollins…
Myrtle Beach FD gives tips on generator safety ahead of winter storm
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) -- As icy conditions are forecast to hit the area this weekend, the Myrtle Beach Fire Department is urging residents to take precautions regarding generator use due to the potential for power outages. Capt. Jonathan Evans, the public information officer for the Myrtle Beach Fire Department, underscored the importance of generator [...]
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