Using generator as a source of power is a common occurrence in Nigeria since power generated by the Power Holding Company cannot cater or our needs. Most houses and establishments are now equipped with functioning generators that provide power as at when needed. These are then maintained and kept in optimum condition to preserve them. Though it is expensive to run and maintain, most Nigerians are relieved by the availability of these generators as they provide an alternative means to get their businesses running with or without help from the power holding company. Generators, however, are not free of risks and dangers and accidents resulting from their use may lead to loss of lives and property, so we have devised ways to keep safe from such accidents and some of these are:
- Do not install the generator close to the house: Generator fumes are very harmful to the body as they produce substances such as carbon monoxide which is very poisonous to human beings. On no condition should you install a generator close to the house or inside the building as this can prove very dangerous in case of an accident and the smoke itself coming from the engine can lead to suffocation if the house is not well ventilated.
- Keep the fuel away from the kitchen: The two commonest fuels used for generators are diesel and gasoline which are highly flammable. Some people keep their fuel container in the kitchen in a bid to keep it secured. This is not advisable as these fuels can are volatile and can result in a fire that spreads all through the entire house.
- Do not refill generator while still in use: Most people are fond of this risky habit. In order to ensure that the generator does not stop working even when there is no more fuel in it, they refill it while still in use. I’m sure no one needs to remind people that such actions are dangerous, but they still go on to do it anyway. Pouring fuel into the generator while it is still in use can cause an explosion if some of the fuel leaks into the engine and sparks fire.
- Keep children away from generators: It is a known fact that kids love to play around, however, parents should be the ones choosing the toys. For safety reasons, do not allow your children to play with the generator. Aside from the fact that they may damage it, there is also a very high probability that they may harm themselves.