Please note that the Spring into Energy Efficiency article in the April edition of Alabama Living magazine, pages 6-7, contains an unfortunate misprint. CEC sells water heaters at a discounted price to its members for $250. The amount that was printed ($150) is incorrect. Anyone needing to purchase a water heater from CEC will pay the correct price of $250. We apologize for any confusion. Thank you.
Generator Safety
Portable generators can be very helpful to consumers during outages, but we urge CEC members to follow these safety guidelines when using portable generators:
- Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring. This can cause back feeding along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including lineman making repairs.
- Never plug a generator into a regular household outlet. This can also cause back feeding and pose an electrocution risk to utility workers and others served by the same utility transformer.
- Always plug appliances directly into generators. Connecting the generator to your home’s circuits or wiring must be done by a licensed electrician who will install a transfer switch to prevent back feeding.
- Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords. Make sure extension cords are free of tears and the plug has all three prongs.
- Ensure your generator is properly grounded.
- Never overload a generator. A portable generator should be used only when necessary and only to power essential equipment or appliances.
- Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting down the generator.
- Keep the generator dry. Operate it on a dry surface under an open structure.
- Always have a fully charged fire extinguisher nearby.
- Never fuel a generator while it is operating.
- Read and adhere the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.