You are here: Home News No Electricity!
Navigation
Ask an Expert
 
| Share

No Electricity!

County Agent News

Dan Folske

May 2, 2011

 

No Electricity!

            There is nothing like being without it to remind us of how helpless we are without electricity! By the time you read this I hope everyone will be back online. As I am writing this there are still quite a few people without electricity. My power came on about 10 pm Sunday night.

            I know it’s a little late but I think a little info relating to the safe use of generators may still be appropriate.

 

According to information from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) there are three main causes of injuries and fatalities related to using portable generators.

1.      Shocks and electrocution from improper use of power or accidentally energizing other electrical systems. Never hook a generator directly into a buildings electrical system without a properly wired transfer switch!

2.      Carbon monoxide from a generator’s exhaust. Operating a generator in the house or in an attached garage is a great way to die from carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide from a generators exhaust can be forced into the house through attic vents and other air movement. Don’t place a generator outdoors near a window or door that may be open be open to run extension cords through.

3.      Fires from improperly refueling the generator or inappropriately storing fuel near a generator.

 

If you would like to know more about generator safety or sizing a generator to fit your needs you can check out this video from NDSU Extension Ag Engineer Ken Hellevang.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPEQvPbuE3o&feature=player_embedded#at=195

 

Livestock Losses

            These recent snow storms have been tough on young livestock. If you have had losses you need to get them documented and reported to FSA to qualify for the Livestock Indemnity Program.

 

Document Actions
Use This Content

Feel free to use and share this content, but please do so under the conditions of our Creative Commons license. Thanks.

Rules for Use

 

Creative Commons License

Last updated: May 2, 2011 10:44 am

Site Manager: Dan Folske

Privacy Information

NDSU Extension Service

Phone: (701) 231-8944
NDSU Dept. 7000
315 Morrill Hall, P.O. Box 6050
Fargo, ND 58108-6050