Generator safety

The safety of you, our members and our employees is a top priority at KEM Electric Cooperative, especially during uncertain situations. When storms impact our area, KEM Electric employees work safely and diligently to restore electric services as soon as weather conditions allow. 

When line crews are working on impacted infrastructure, like downed power lines, they take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. First, they verify a circuit has been de-energized, and proper switches are opened and tagged to isolate the circuit from the system. They then place grounding straps on the circuit, on both sides of workers, to make sure the power line cannot be energized while work is being completed. 

“Our team works to ensure a safe working environment during every job,” says Marty Messer, Steele area foreman. “But members can also assist in keeping everyone safe.”

Portable generators, which are widely used when electric services are down, can prove fatal to both line crews and members when used improperly.

Although portable generators can be helpful during outages, we urge you to follow these safety guidelines:

• Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring unless your home has been wired for generator use. A generator connected to a home’s wiring or plugged into a household outlet can cause back feeding along power lines and electrocute anyone who comes in contact with them, even if the line seems de-energized. Have a licensed electrician install the equipment necessary to safely connect generators to your home.
• Always plug appliances or equipment directly into generators. Turn off appliances or equipment before plugging them into the generator or turning the generator off.
• Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords. Make sure extension cords are free of cuts or tears and the plug has three prongs.
• Never overload a generator. A portable generator should only be used when necessary to power essential equipment or appliances.
• Keep the generator dry. Operate it on a dry surface under an open structure.
• Always have a fully charged fire extinguisher nearby. In case of a fire hazard, have a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never refuel a generator while it is operating. Turn the generator off and allow it to cool down before refueling.
• Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions. Follows the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe operation. 

Rest assured when a storm hits our area, KEM Electric crews are ready to safely restore power to homes and business, but we need your help to remain safe. When we work together for safety and the good of our communities, we all benefit.