Safety Tips For Using A Generator During A Power Outage

By Michelle Durham

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Many South Jersey residents have faced widespread power outages over the past several days and with no end to the power problems in sight, some are bringing in a generator to power their fridge or their central air, but a local official has some advice on how to use them properly.

Delaware County's Middletown Fire Company Chief Chip Lillie says safety is a big key when it comes to using a generator.

"You can't plug in your refrigerator and your air conditioners and your TV's into one little generator. It will overload it. More so than damaging your property is the CO or carbon monoxide poisoning risk you take when using a generator too close to your home or in your garage. You want to make sure it's outside and well-vented away from your home."

He recommends covering under an umbrella of some kind and to remember when that generator runs out of fuel, many of its components are hot so that is not the safest time to refuel it.

If you have any questions, "Look up the number and call your local fire station and they'll be happy to give you some tips and pointers if you have any questions. We'd much rather do that than have to come out for an emergency."