Home generators can be useful during a power outage but they can also be very dangerous if they are not used properly. Always follow all manufacturer’s instructions and contact a qualified electrician or electrical inspector if you have questions.
Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
- Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas in the engine exhaust. You may not smell the exhaust but could still be exposed to CO.
- Never use a portable generator indoors, including inside a garage or other enclosed or partially enclosed area.
- Only operate portable generators outdoors and at a location where the exhaust cannot enter your home or other buildings.
- If you start to feel dizzy, nausea, a headache or tired while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately and seek medical attention.
- Use a battery-operated CO detector at home. This is also advisable for homes that have a natural gas fired forced air heating system.
- Prevent electric shock and electrocution. Serious accidents or fire can result when a home generator is improperly connected to an existing house wiring system.
- It is not permissible to connect a home portable or stationary generator directly to a house wiring system without the proper installation of a CSA-approved transfer switch. An ESA permit is required for the installation, unless it is done by a licensed electrical contractor . For more information on the correct way to connect your generator and to obtain a permit, please call your electrical contractor or the electrical inspector in your area.
- Never plug a portable generator into a regular household electrical outlet. This can also cause back-feeding to our electrical grid, which is a serious electrical danger to your neighbours and our utility workers.
- Plug appliances directly into the generator or use a properly sized CSA-approved 3-pronged extension cord in good condition.
- Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) portable extension cord if you are using the portable generator to power electrical tools for outdoor use.
- Keep the generator dry and protected from rain and snow.
Prevent fire
- Do not store fuel in the home. Fuels should be stored in properly labeled and vented fuel storage containers in a well-ventilated building or storage shed away from living areas. Do not store fuel near the generator or other fuel-burning or heat-producing appliances.
- Shut down the generator and allow it to cool before refueling.
- Do not overload the generator.
For more information on portable generator safety and certification requirements, visit the
Electrical Safety Authority website.