Generators have become very popular in Florida as a result of power outages during several record-breaking hurricane seasons.

"Generators are very useful when the power goes out but they can be hazardous when consumers do not take the time to review safety directions and follow the manufacturers' guidelines," Bronson said. "People should take time well before a storm to read the information so they don't put themselves and their families at risk."

There were reports of 179 carbon monoxide deaths associated with portable generators between 1990 and 2002. Other primary hazards include electrocution and fire.

Three people have died in South Florida over the past two years as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning from generators. One used the device in the kitchen; a couple died when the generator, which was located outside their bedroom window, spewed the gas into the open window.

The primary cause of death and illness is from carbon monoxide poisoning because people used generators indoors or in partially enclosed areas such as garages or balconies. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the flu. People who feel sick, dizzy or weak while inside but feel better when they leave their home should be cautioned that there might be carbon monoxide present and they should get immediate medical attention.

Some consumers in Florida mistakenly believed that using the generators in their garage was safe if the door was left open. However, the gases leaked into the homes through vents. In addition, garages are not usually well ventilated so if the owner lets it run awhile and then comes to turn it off, the carbon monoxide levels can be so high as to immediately render the person unconscious and cause death. Generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide very quickly.

Prior to purchasing a generator, consumers should make sure they get one rated for the amount of power they will need. Light bulbs, appliances and equipment usually have labels indicating their power requirements. People unable to determine the amount of power they will need should contact an electrician for help. Generators should support the minimum needs of a household during an emergency. Also, during an emergency the fuel supply may be very limited so people should use the generator wisely.

Appliance Wattage Ratings Chart

Follow these safety tips to protect against poisoning, electrocution and fires:

• Never use a generator indoors, including in garages, balconies, crawl spaces or other partially enclosed areas even with ventilation. Opening windows or using fans does not prevent carbon monoxide buildup
• Place the generator outdoors and away from doors, windows and vents and put it in a covered location.
• Follow the directions that come with the unit.
• Install battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and operate it on a dry surface under a canopy-like structure. Dry hands before touching the unit.
• Plug appliances directly into the generator or use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated in amps or watts at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads.
• Never try to power a house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. This is extremely hazardous to the homeowner, utility workers and neighbors served by the same utility transformer.
• Don't overload the generator. Don't operate more appliances than the output rating calls for.
• Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting down the unit.
• Never store fuel for the generator in the home, and use properly labeled safety containers to store the fuel. Also, do not store excessive amounts of fuel.
• Before refueling the unit, turn it off and let it cool down. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.

Many people are installing permanent generators and they should be sure to use qualified electricians. Consumers who opt for portable units need to take the time long before a disaster to review the instructions and safety tips so they don't make a mistake that can end in a disaster of its own.

Wattage Ratings For Common Appliances