08/14/2026
INFORMATION - SAFETY REMINDER
To: All Residents
From: Code Enforcement Officer P. Myers
Date: August 13th, 2026
Subject: Generator Safety - Never Operate a Generator Inside a House or Garage
The purpose of this memorandum is to remind everyone of the serious dangers associated with operating portable generators inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any enclosed or partially enclosed area.
Portable generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas. Carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, making it extremely dangerous because people may not realize they are being exposed until it is too late.
Running a generator inside a house or garage--even if the garage door is open--can quickly allow carbon monoxide to build up to deadly levels. The gas can easily enter living spaces through doors, windows, vents, and other openings.
Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause:
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness
If exposure continues, the consequences can be severe, including:
• Permanent brain damage
• Heart injury
• Respiratory failure
• Death
In addition to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, generators present fire and electrical hazards if they are improperly operated or connected to a home's electrical system.
To operate a generator safely:
• Always place the generator outdoors in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• Position it at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents whenever possible.
• Never use a generator inside a garage, even with the door open.
• Never operate a generator inside a home, basement, shed, or enclosed porch.
• Install battery-operated or hardwired carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and test them regularly.
• Follow all manufacturer instructions for safe operation and maintenance.
Generator safety is everyone's responsibility. A few moments of convenience are never worth risking serious injury or loss of life. By following these safety guidelines, we can help protect ourselves, our families, and our community from preventable tragedies.
If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure, move everyone to fresh air immediately, call 911, and do not re-enter the building until emergency personnel determine it is safe.