Generator safety: CO, backfeeding and placement rules
Most rules below are quoted word-for-word from U.S. safety agencies and the American Red Cross, with a link to each.
Why it matters
- CPSC says an average of nearly 100 people die in the U.S. each year from CO poisoning caused by portable generators (CPSC (2026): Winter storm generator warning).
- CPSC says one portable generator can produce the same amount of carbon monoxide as hundreds of cars (CPSC Carbon Monoxide Information Center).
- CPSC’s 2022 report found most generator deaths (81%) occur in residential locations, and the top reason for using a generator in those incidents was weather-related power outages (CPSC (2022): CO fatalities report).
- The CDC calls CO an odorless, colorless gas that kills without warning (CDC: Generator Safety Fact Sheet).
The rules
Run it outdoors only
Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.
Source: Ready.gov: Power Outages
Never in a garage, porch or carport
Never operate a portable generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed or other enclosed spaces. Don’t operate a generator on a porch or in a carport.
Point the exhaust away
Direct the generator’s exhaust away from your home and other buildings’ entrances.
CO alarms on every level
Install battery-operated CO alarms or CO alarms with battery backup on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas.
No backfeeding
Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. Known as “backfeeding,” this practice puts utility workers, your neighbors and your household at risk of electrocution.
Use a transfer switch for house wiring
If you want to permanently connect your generator to your home’s house wiring, have an electrician install a power transfer switch.
Cool before refueling
Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
Source: Ready.gov: Power Outages
Keep it dry
Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.
Source: Ready.gov: Power Outages
Right cords
Plug appliances directly into the generator, or use a heavy duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads.