Mar 2, 2018   SOURCE: PR NewsWire

Winter Storm Riley leaving thousands in the dark

WAUKESHA, Wis., March 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Nor'easter currently affecting the eastern part of the United States is causing widespread power outages. Portable generator misuse is common in such intense conditions, and that can endanger users. Generac Power Systems, a leading manufacturer of home standby and portable generators, reminds everyone to be safe during the storm.

"There is no way to control the weather, but it is possible to control the best way to stay safe," said Art Aiello, Generac spokesperson. Here are critical safety tips when using portable generators:

Safety tips when using back-up power: 

    --  Generators must be run outdoors, far from home entrancesA portable
        generator gives off carbon monoxide, which is odorless, colorless and
        deadly. It should be operated outside far away from windows, vents and
        doors so that fumes do not enter the residence. The generator also needs
        to be in a dry area, protected from exposure to rain and snow. Garages,
        basements, crawlspaces or sheds are considered extremely unsafe areas to
        run a portable generator. The Portable Generator Manufacturers'
        Association, of which Generac is a charter member, offers many tips
        about how to operate a portable generator safely at
        www.takeyourgeneratoroutside.com.

    --  Avoid fire hazardsBe aware of the manufacturer's rating on the electric
        load of your generator and be sure not to overload it. Turn appliances
        on one at a time. Remember that the greater the load on a generator, the
        more fuel it will use. Before refueling, turn the generator off and let
        it cool down. It may be uncomfortable dealing without power temporarily,
        but fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.

    --  Beware of electrical hazardsEnsure that extension cords are grounded, in
        good repair and of the appropriate gauge size. Coiled cords can get hot,
        so lay them out in flat, open locations that will not cause a tripping
        hazard in dim lighting.

When the storm has passed, homeowners should consider a home standby generator, which is the most complete backup power solution. These generators are permanently installed and can provide power to the whole home automatically, within seconds of an outage. For more information on emergency power solutions that are the best fit for you, contact your independent authorized Generac dealer today. Find one near you by visiting Generac.com/dealer-locator.

ABOUT GENERAC
Since 1959, Generac has been a leading designer and manufacturer of a wide range of power generation equipment and other engine powered products. As a leader in power equipment serving residential, light commercial, and industrial markets, Generac's power products are available globally through a broad network of independent dealers, distributors, retailers, wholesalers and equipment rental companies, as well as sold direct to certain end user customers.

Media Contacts
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SOURCE Generac Power Systems, Inc.