The hurricanes this summer and the massive blackout in August 2003 created an increased demand for emergency generators. Tornadoes, ice, and snowstorms here in Illinois can also cause major, long-term outage emergencies. But buying a generator in an emergency is never a good idea. First of all, the price that is normally high, $800 to $3,000 for a 4,000-watt or larger generator, can increase with demand. Even worse, safe installation and use of the generator are often ignored when installed quickly during an emergency.

Improperly installing and running a generator can kill you or the line personnel trying to restore power. Improper use can also damage or destroy appliances, cause a fire, or cause carbon monoxide poisoning. The safety of transferring your power needs to an emergency generator is your responsibility.

The biggest concern is proper hookup of the generator. It must be hooked up through a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch unless you are plugging in individual appliances directly to the generator. When you're using your generator to provide power to the whole house, a transfer switch disconnects your wiring system and generator from your electric cooperative's system. This eliminates any chance of the generator feeding power back into the electric co-op's system.

A qualified, licensed electrician should be hired to install the transfer switch in accordance with the National Electrical Code and any local ordinances. The generator should be properly grounded, too. A minimum of 10-gauge wiring must be used. During an outage, pulling the handle down switches the source of the electricity from the co-op's lines to your generator.

We can't stress enough the importance of using a transfer switch and hooking up the generator properly. The danger works the other way, too. Should service be restored while the generator is running without a proper transfer switch, the generator can be damaged or destroyed.

Small generators are usually not powerful enough to run your complete household needs. Overloading can cause damage to the generator and appliances. It can also cause a fire hazard. Undersized extension cords can also overheat. List all of the appliances and their wattage totals you want to run. Remember starting loads are often greater, but your generator should be sized to handle this load. A 5,000-watt generator, for example, could run four lights, a furnace fan (only), a refrigerator, and a sump pump. Voltage levels may fluctuate from portable generators, which can cause damage to your electrical appliances. Be sure and start the largest motor or appliance first. Don't attempt to speed up the engine for more output. Non-standard voltage and frequency can cause damage.

Install the generator in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area. Obstructing ventilation can cause overheating and produce carbon monoxide poisoning. Never operate in a confined area where animals or people could be exposed. Keep animals and children away from the generator while it is operating. Do not operate the generator in rain, snow, or flooded conditions. Water and electricity don't mix!

Inspect all extension cords for proper size and damage. Always properly ground extension cords.

Never fill the fuel tank while the engine is running. Gasoline can be ignited by a hot muffler, engine, or an electrical spark. Allow the engine to cool completely before refueling. Store fuel in proper containers.

Don't let a weather disaster turn into a personal disaster. If you need an emergency generator, by all means, purchase one now and have a transfer switch installed before a storm hits. Your co-op's line personnel will always work tirelessly to get your power back on as quickly as possible. It's a dangerous job even in the best of conditions. By installing a double-pole, double-throw generator transfer switch you'll know you've protected them and your home. They'll appreciate your concern for their safety.

Mike Bird is Loss Control Manager for Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange, the leading provider of property and casualty insurance for electric co-ops. For more information go to www.safeelectricity.org.

14 ILLINOIS COUNTRY LIVING www.icl.coop