Ministry of Health issues safety tips for generator use
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Ministry of Health is advising people who opt to use generators as a result of disruption in their power supply, to take extra precaution and be aware of the following:
• Generators use engines which produce carbon dioxide, a poisonous gas that can kill. Use generators outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents of occupied spaces.
• Water will damage generators as well as produce an electrical hazard. Keep generators in a dry area.
• Generators should be kept a safe distance from structures because of engine heat.
• An appliance that has a heating element, such as a toaster or hair dryer, consumes a large amount of current. Avoid using these appliances when running the generator.
• Some generators have the ability to produce 115/120 volts or 220 volts. Select the outlet that uses the correct voltage.