MPSC Highlights Safe Use of Portable Generators during Carbon

Monoxide Safety and Awareness Week

Contact: Judy Palnau, 517-241-3323
Agency: Michigan Public Service Commission

October 20, 2014 - The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today highlighted the safe
use of portable generators during Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Week in Michigan.

"Portable generators are safe when used properly," said Commissioner Sally Talberg. "That's why
it's important that people know about their safe use and how to avoid deadly carbon monoxide
poisoning. Carbon monoxide, known as the 'invisible killer', is especially dangerous because it is
tasteless, colorless and odorless and can kill in a matter of minutes."

Talberg highlighted the MPSC's new consumer tips sheet on safe use of portable generators and
stressed the following:
Only use portable generators outside, far away from windows, doors and vents.
Place portable generators outside and downwind, with the exhaust pointed away from
occupied spaces.
Never use portable generators inside homes, garages, basements, sheds or other partially
enclosed spaces -- even if using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation.
Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector/alarm inside your home - or one with
battery backup.
The Michigan Department of Community Health has additional information on the dangers of carbon
monoxide on its website: Michigan.gov/carbonmonoxide. Call 9-1-1 to get help immediately if you
suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.

Governor Rick Snyder has proclaimed Oct. 19-25 as Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness
Week to raise awareness of carbon monoxide safety throughout Michigan.
The Portable Generator Manufacturers' Association has produced a public service announcement
with helpful tips:

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The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Board of Directors adopted
a resolutionrecognizing the importance of educating consumers on portable generator carbon
monoxide safety and encouraged state utility commissions to provide information to consumers on
the safe operation of portable generators.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

For more information about LARA, please visit www.michigan.gov/lara. Follow us on
Twitterwww.twitter.com/michiganLARA, Like us on Facebook or find us on
YouTube www.youtube.com/michiganLARA.
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