SECO Energy in Florida
Service restoration following a Florida storm © Cathy Sheldon
 
Always play it safe around electricity and generators

Especially around generators!

20 things to understand BEFORE you buy, or install an electric generator!

  1. Learn all you can about generators BEFORE you purchase one.
  2. Improper use or installation of an electric generator can cause property damage, serious injury and even death.
  3. Always think about YOUR safety first!
  4. To protect yourself, your family, your property, and SECO's employees read and follow the safety instructions contained in the generator operations manual.
  5. A qualified electrical contractor MUST perform the installation of an emergency generator, disconnect and transfer switchgear.
  6. THIS IS NOT a do-it-yourself job! Do NOT attempt to install these devices to your electrical panel. It is EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND CAN CAUSE HIGH VOLTAGES TO BE TRANSMITTED THROUGH THE UTILITY COMPANY’S WIRES!
  7. ALWAYS check and follow State, Local, National Fire and Electric Codes.
  8. ALWAYS properly disconnect from your metered electric utility service BEFORE starting your backup generator!
  9. NEVER run an electric generator inside a building, especially in a building attached to a dwelling. It is a HAZARD and AGAINST ALL FIRE / SAFETY CODES!
  10. ALWAYS store gasoline in approved containers only!
  11. NEVER fuel an electric generator when the generator is running!
  12. EXTINGUISH all flames or cigarettes when handling gasoline!
  13. ALWAYS insure proper ventilation and airflow around the generator.
  14. ALWAYS have a fully charged approved fire extinguisher located near the generator.
  15. ALWAYS store fuel containers out of the reach of children.
  16. When using extension cords, ALWAYS check for exposed wires and frayed shielding. REPLACE if damaged!
  17. NEVER remove or tamper with safety devices. They are there to protect you and your property!
  18. NEVER attempt to repair an electric generator. Only a qualified serviceman should perform repairs.
  19. Many engine parts are very HOT during operation. Severe burns may result if touched! KEEP children AWAY from generators at all times!
  20. NEVER operate generator in an enclosed compartment!
Wherever you go, or whatever you do
— do it safely!

Generators

Power Tools

Children's Safety

Line Tech Gear

Planning a project that requires you to dig where you suspect there may be underground electric lines?

Call 48 hours prior to digging and a trained professional will mark all underground cables at your location. It's a free service that could save you time, money and could help you avoid a serious injury.

Back to top

Page last updated: Thursday, February 28, 2008

SECO™ • 330 South Highway 301, Sumterville, Florida 33585-0301 • Citrus (352) 726-3944 •  Hernando (352) 521-5788  • Pasco (352) 521-5788
Lake (352) 357-5600; (352) 429-2195 • Marion (352) 237-4107; (352) 489-4390 • Levy (352) 528-3644 • Sumter (352) 793-3801
To report outages only •1-800-732-6141 
| Terms | Contacts | Webmaster |
© 1996-2008 Sumter Electric Cooperative, Inc. -- dba SECO Energy. All rights reserved. Do not use text or graphics without written permission.