How to use a generator safely when a winter storm strikes Nottingham, Maryland.

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause so much damage to your property and health if you are not prepared. During power outages during a winter storm, using a generator will keep you and your family warm, as reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning device INSIDE a home, basement, garage, crawlspace or even partially enclosed area.

 If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below (from the American Red Cross).

1. To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure such as under a tarp held up by poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
2. Opening doors and windows or fans will not prevent Carbon monoxide build up in the home. Although Carbon monoxide can’t be smelled, it can rapidly build up and lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed. IF you start to feel dizzy, week, sick while using a generator, get to fresh air IMMEDIATELY
3. Install Carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside of sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

Storm or Water Damage from a power outage? Call SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 410-529-1664

When winter storms hit Rosedale Maryland, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We are accepted by all insurance companies and are certified in Water restoration, mold remediation, Applied Structural Drying, and more from the IICRC.