Portable generators, widely used when power lines are down, can prove fatal to line-workers and your neighbors when used improperly.

In 2005, a lineman died in Flomaton, Ala., when he contacted a power line that was energized by an improperly installed generator. Forty-one-year-old Ronnie Adams of Winterville, Ga., was working to restore power after Hurricane Dennis. He was married and had two teenage children. Of course, no one would ever purposely cause the death of a line worker. Nevertheless, a generator connected to a home’s wiring or plugged into a regular household outlet can cause back-feeding along power lines and electrocute anyone who comes in contact with them—even if the line seems dead.

And Southern Rivers Energy employees are not the only ones in danger when a portable generator is used improperly. Generator-owners themselves may be at risk of electrocution, fire injury, property damage, or carbon monoxide poisoning if they do not follow the necessary safety rules. If you have or are considering purchasing a portable generator for your home, please consider purchasing a GenerLink Switch to prevent back-feeding on the power line. Southern Rivers Energy will install a GenerLink Switch behind the meter. This prevents running multiple extension cords and helps ensure the safety of our linemen and field service technicians. Members are required to sign a GenerLink Installation Agreement before Southern Rivers Energy can install the switch.

Please call customer service at 770-358-1383 or 877-358-1383 for more information. Portable generators can be very helpful to consumers during outages, but we urge you to follow these safety guidelines when using one.

• Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring unless your home has been wired for generator use. This can cause back-feeding along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including line-workers making repairs. Have a licensed electrician install the equipment necessary to safely connect emergency generators to your home.
• Always plug appliances directly into generators. Connecting the generator to your home’s circuits or wiring must be done by a qualified, licensed electrician who will install a transfer switch to prevent back-feeding.
• Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords. Make sure extension cords are free of cuts or tears and the plug has three prongs. Overloaded cords can cause fires or equipment damage.
• Ensure your generator is properly grounded.
• Never overload a generator. A portable generator should only be used when necessary to power essential equipment or appliances.
• Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting it down.
• Keep the generator dry. Operate it on a dry surface under an open structure.
• Always have a fully charged fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never fuel a generator while it is operating.
• Read and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation. Never cut corners when it comes to safety.

We encourage you to protect the well-being and safety of your family during outages, and safeguard those who come to your aid during emergency situations. When we work together for safety and the good of our communities, we all benefit.