STARTING THE GENERATOR
To maximize safety, ALWAYS ground the generator before using it (see the “GROUND THE GENERATOR” section
on page 18).
Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in highly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel work. GFCIs
are available in-line with some extension cords.
CAUTION:
Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator before attempting to start.
DANGER: CARBON MONOXIDE
Using a generator indoors
CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO).
This is a poison gas you cannot see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are breathing CO.
But even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.
NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or other partially enclosed areas. Deadly levels
of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas. Using a fan or opening windows and doors does NOT supply
enough fresh air. ONLY use a generator OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors, and vents. These open-
ings can pull in generator exhaust.
Even if you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS use a battery-powered or battery-
backup CO alarm in the home. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has been running,
move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.
WARNING:
The exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
WARNING:
DO NOT operate generator near open flame or flammable materials This generator may emit
highly flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A
nearby open flame can lead to explosion even if it isn’t directly in contact with gasoline. Do not smoke near the
generator.
WARNING:
This generator produces powerful voltage, which can result in electrocution.
WARNING:
Do not use in rainy or wet conditions. Do not touch bare wires or receptacles (outlets). Do not
allow children or non-qualified persons to operate.
WARNING:
Generator should ONLY be connected to electrical devices, either directly or with an extension
cord. NEVER CONNECT TO A BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM without a qualified electrician and connected to
a transfer switch as a separately derived system. Such connections must comply with local electrical laws and
codes. Failure to comply can create a back-feed, which may result in serious injury or death to utility workers.
19
Before starting the generator, make sure you have read and performed the steps in the “GENERATOR PREPARA-
TION” section of this manual. If you are unsure about how to perform any of the steps in this manual please call
(800) 232-1195 M-F 8-5 CST for customer service.
