How to choose and use a portable generator safely

What to look for

Tick each point the product you are considering meets.

• Choose a portable generator with a CO shut-off safety feature, which switches it off automatically when carbon monoxide builds up around it.^[1]
• Look for models certified to the PGMA G300-2018 and UL 2201 safety standards; CPSC estimates these cut CO poisoning deaths by 87% and 100% respectively.^[1]
• Buy battery-operated or battery back-up CO alarms for your home at the same time.^[2]

Avoid

• Never run a generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed or any other enclosed space.^[1]
• Do not rely on open doors or windows: they do not let in enough air to stop deadly CO building up.^[1]
• Do not run it on a porch or in a carport.^[1]

After you buy

• Run it outside only, more than 20 feet (about 6 metres) from any windows, doors and vents.^[2]
• Close nearby windows and seal vents near the generator or in the path of its exhaust.^[1]
• Keep CO alarms near every sleeping area, test them monthly and replace them as the maker says or every 5 years.^[2]