By Stephanie Schupska
University of
Georgia

Tropical weather systems like Hurricane Dennis leave some hidden
dangers behind. Among them is carbon monoxide poisoning from
using portable generators improperly, said a University of
Georgia expert.

“Really and truly, we’re trying to raise as much awareness about
this as possible,” said Gina Peek, a housing program assistant
with the UGA Extension Service. “If you can avoid it, don’t use
(a generator) at all.”

As the hurricane season rolls on, “if a storm comes through and
you lose power, go to a shelter,” she said.

Peek does give tips for those who do plan to use a generator when
the power goes out.

1. Read the instructions.
2. Wait until the storm subsides before turning it on. Never use
   a generator in wet weather.
3. Put the generator on a dry, flat surface as far away from the
   home as possible. Use a rated extension cord to take electricity
   back into a home. Never place a generator near a door or window,
   even if they’re closed, or in a garage.
4. Before touching the generator, make sure your hands are dry
   and you’re not standing in water.
5. Never plug the extension cord running from the generator into
   an outlet in the house. This causes the electricity to flow
   backwards and could electrocute someone in the house or in
   another home.

(Stephanie Schupska is a news editor with the University of
Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.)