Generator Safety Tips

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - The Virginia Beach Fire Department is urging residents to run their portable generators outside of the home.

Running a generator anywhere in the home, including the garage, could be dangerous, causing residents to suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning. Even with the garage door open, fumes can accumulate.

Carbon monoxide is an extremely dangerous gas that causes asphyxiation. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can only be detected with a carbon monoxide detector.

The Virginia Beach Fire Department also urges residents to never refuel a running generator. The generator should be off for 30 minutes and be cool to the touch before refueling. Refueling a hot or running generator can cause a violent and rapid fire that could cause serious thermal burns.

To avoid the danger of electrical shock, portable generators should never be connected to the building wiring system. If you must use a generator, connect appliances directly to the generator.

Please continue to monitor local television and radio stations for the most up-to-date information on current storm conditions. Please do not call 911 unless you have a true emergency.