Hurricane Emergency Power


Please don't kill the Utility Lineman

In the last hour before a hurricane there is always a panic rush to purchase the last remaining portable gasoline emergency generator.
Thousands of emergency generators are sold over the counter to well meaning homeowners who are not aware of the consequences of an improper installation. Too often after the hurricane you hear of a lineman being killed by an improperly installed generator back feeding the utility lines.

Improperly installed generators can pose serious dangers to you, your family and Power line construction crews.

In the aftermath of a disaster there are circumstances that circumvent conventional safety procedures. The utility companies rely heavily on independent construction firms to quickly restore utility lines. Private contractor employees are sometimes less familiars with the territory and the established utility company procedures. On top of everything else there is the stress caused by working long hours in inclement conditions and the pressure to restore power to thousands of customers some of whom are in dire need.

As an electrician I am often sought out on the day of the hurricane for free consultation on the installation of emergency generators. I say free because no-one ever expects to pay for professional advise unless it's from a doctor or lawyer. I often have strangers come to my home at odd hours for advise about electrical installations or problems. Of course in the Deep South this kind of hospitality is usually expected and I am always willing to offer free advise where safety is concerned.

I discourage connecting portable generators directly into the building's wiring system. But if one insists, I always recommend the use of a double throw transfer switch to prevent the generator from back feeding the utility lines. I even recommend some competent contractors who are qualified and licensed to make a proper and safe installation. My last words are always a warning of the criminal charges and the liability for endangering the life of electrical utility workers. I