TWFG - Messina Insurance Services

Thankful for serving the community and providing peace of mind in this Holiday Season.

Serious injury and deaths have been associated with portable generator use. If you or someone you know is using a portable generator after the storm, please share the following information with them or encourage them to "like" my page.

General Safety and Usage Guidelines for Backup Generators

Be sure to use your generator correctly. Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Even if you can’t smell exhaust fumes, you may still have been exposed to carbon monoxide.
Position generators outdoors and well away from any structure. Running a generator inside any enclosed or partially enclosed structure can lead to dangerous and often fatal levels of carbon monoxide.
Keep the generator dry. Operate your generator on a dry surface under an open, canopy-like structure and make sure your hands are dry before touching the generator.
Disconnect the power coming into your home/business. Before you operate your generator, disconnect your normal source of power. ...
Make sure your generator is properly grounded. Grounding generators can help prevent shocks and electrocutions. Refer to OSHA guidelines for grounding requirements for portable generators.

Below are symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is advised to either move or discontinue use of the generator either permanently or temporarily.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headaches, dizziness, and nausea.

Other symptoms include:

Headache
Fatigue
Confusion
Abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Weakness
Palpitations
Shortness of breath
Agitation
Drowsiness
Hallucinations
Visual disturbances
Seizured