Ameren is reminding customers in Illinois to operate backup generators safely after local fire departments already handled carbon monoxide incidents this year. Gas units should run outside, away from the house, in a well-ventilated area. Never connect a generator directly to a wall outlet. Small generators can still create backfeed. A 3,000-watt unit plugged into house wiring can push voltage back through the service line and energize a transformer to primary voltage, which endangers utility workers. Ameren recommends a qualified electrician install a transfer switch or interlock kit, and using properly rated extension cords to individual appliances. Customer-owned generation, including solar and battery storage, should be maintained and comply with electrical codes. Anyone relying on backup power this season should review these steps before an outage.
