Are generators dangerous? Can a generator hurt someone or something?

Yes. Emergency generators pose safety hazards.

Transfer switches are required for permanently installed generators because the generated electricity can flow through the meter base and into the distribution lines posing life-threatening risks to workers, neighbors, children, or animals near a downed power line.

In addition, when the power comes back on, it flows back to your home and can seriously damage or destroy a generator without an approved safety switch.

Portable generators require special care and attention to ventilation and refueling. It is important to ensure that when you use the generator, first turn off the main power switch or breaker in your home.

Never operate your generator inside your home, as this could create toxic exhaust fumes, which could cause injury or death.

Always isolate the generator from the utility supply by plugging the appliances directly into the generator. Do not wire the home electrical system into the generator as the generator could feed back power into the utility power lines as power crews work to restore power and put their lives at risk.

Avoid overloading the generator. It should only be used when necessary and to power essential equipment. Overloading the generator ca cause potential fire and safety hazards.