MANDEVILLE, Manchester — With sections of the country still without electricity due to the passage of Hurricane Beryl, a senior member of the Jamaica Fire Brigade has added his voice to those urging members of the public to be cautious when using generators and candles.

Head of the Manchester Fire Department Superintendent Rohan Powell said the absence of electricity can lead to dangerous circumstances if precautions are not taken.

“Because of the type of situation that the country is facing now it poses a great risk and we want to say to people, if you have to refuel your generator, shut it down, disengage from the power supply, refuel before you restart,” Powell told the
Jamaica Observer on Tuesday.

With the Ministry of Health reporting last week of at least three cases of carbon monoxide poisoning related to the use of generators, Powell is also warning Jamaicans to be cautious on how they use the units.

“Try your best to keep it in a well ventilated area. Not an enclosed area where a lot of fumes [can be trapped], because then you can suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning and it maybe fatal,” said Powell as he also urged Jamaicans using candles and kerosene lamps to place them in safe spaces.“Also we want to advise, because we have to be using alternative source of lighting, candles and such alike. Keep them away from anything that they may come in contact with and contribute to the spread of fire,” added Powell.

Generator safety tips

The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator.

* To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.

* Be sure to turn the generator off and let it cool down before refuelling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.

* Store fuel for the generator in an approved safety can. Use the type of fuel recommended in the instructions or on the label on the generator.

* Plug appliances directly into the generator, or use a heavy duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads.

* Check that the entire cord is free of cuts or tears and that the plug has all three prongs, especially a grounding pin.

* Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. Known as “back feeding,” this practice puts utility workers, your neighbours and your household at risk of electrocution.

* Remember, even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded, resulting in overheating or generator failure. Be sure to read the instructions.

* If necessary, stagger the operating times for various equipment to prevent overloads.

This information was developed by the American Red Cross with technical advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Fire Protection Association, and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.