There are a few things to note when using a portable generator for the first time.

Some Cyclone Debbie affected residents may be using a portable generator for the first time. As such, you may not be aware of the safety precautions that you should follow when using a portable generator. The most important safety tip we can give you is to make sure that your generator is set up where there is proper ventilation.

Briggs and Stratton, one of the largest producers of portable generators, goes a step further than that and offers a number of excellent tips to ensure you operate your portable generator safely.

1. Always read and follow the equipment operator’s manual before operating.
2. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide a poisonous gas that could kill you in minutes. You CANNNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.  Even if you do not smell exhaust fumes, you could still be exposed to carbon monoxide gas.
3. Operate the equipment ONLY outside far away from windows, doors, and vent to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide gas from accumulating and potentially being drawn towards occupied spaces.
4. Install battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms or plug-in carbon monoxide alarms with battery back-up according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Smoke alarms cannot detect carbon monoxide gas.
5. DO NOT run equipment inside homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces, sheds, or other partially-enclosed spaces even if using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation. Carbon monoxide can quickly build up in these spaces and can linger for hours, even after the generator has shut off.
6. Always place equipment downwind and point the engine exhaust away from occupied spaces.
7. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or week while using the portable generator, shut it off and get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.

Briggs and Stratton generators, as well as other well-know portable generator brands are available for delivery right now from Genelite. Contact the team on 1300 305 912 for more information.

Source:  https://www.briggsandstratton.com/na/en_us/buying-guides/portable-generators/portable-generators-101/safety-first.html accessed 29 March 2017