Home/standby generators

The improper use of portable home and standby generators can be dangerous and even deadly. For your safety and the safety of Western Power staff working to restore power, do not connect your generator directly into your home's meter box or circuit panel because this can feed electricity back into the electrical system.

If you plan to use a portable home or standby generator, here are some important safety precautions:

• Select the appropriate generator for your needs. Determine how many appliances you need to run at the same time and select a generator based on the total wattage you will use
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• Locate the generator in a well-ventilated area. NEVER run it inside, even in your garage. Generators produce carbon monoxide and the fumes can be deadly
• Store petrol or other flammable liquids outside of living areas in properly marked and approved containers. They should not be stored in a garage if a fuel-burning appliance is located there
• Plug appliances directly into the generator using heavy-duty extension cords
• Make sure extension cords are not frayed or worn
• Use the generator only when necessary and don’t overload it
• Turn the generator off at night while you sleep and when you are away from home to avoid the risk of fire
• Use a licensed electrician to install permanent generators