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Generator safety tips to keep in mind when the power goes out

For those that might be thinking of getting one of their own now, it's time to brush up on how to use one safely.

ATLANTA — Severe weather swept through metro Atlanta and north Georgia on Sunday evening, bringing gusts that felled trees and knocked out power.

For those that own a portable generator, it was time to put it to use.

For those that might be thinking of getting one of their own now, it's time to brush up on how to use one safely.

RELATED: Thousands without power around Atlanta Monday morning after Sunday storm rolls through

The Portable Generator Manufacturers' Association noted in a release that "although portable generators are life-saving tools in times of emergency — if used improperly, they can also be deadly."

"Year after year, people suffer carbon monoxide poisoning due to improper usage of portable generators. Information and preparedness can help prevent tragedy," the association said.

Here are some tips they provide to safely utilize a generator:

  • Purchase a model with an auto shut-off function: Find one that meets ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 standard requirements. Those include a built-in carbon monoxide shut-off system designed to trigger before concentrations exceed 800 parts per million near the generator. This feature is said to have shown in testing it can prevent 99% of carbon monoxide exposure deaths related to generator use.
  • Read your owner's manual: The PGMA notes it will contain "vital information the manufacturer wants you to know about safe operation."
  • Have gasoline ready: The PGMA stresses that it should be stored in a well-ventilated place.
  • Find a good place to plug in, have extension cords ready: The PGMA advises that it be "positioned so it is operated far away from your residence, doors, windows, vents, garages, and semi-enclosed areas including sheds." Then you'll need extension cords "long enough to extend from this predetermined location to appliances you will want to power such as refrigerators, freezers and other crucial devices."
  • Have a carbon monoxide detector: From the PGMA - "Test it regularly and keep extra batteries for it on hand. This is a safe general practice for overall home safety. Kitchen appliances, chimneys, furnaces and many other common household tools can malfunction and also result in accumulating carbon monoxide."

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