After repeated power outages in Lakewood, Ohio, more homeowners are buying portable generators. Fire officials warn that unsafe installation can cause back-feeding, which can injure utility workers, and carbon monoxide poisoning from improper exhaust placement. They advise hiring a licensed contractor to ensure proper sizing and a transfer switch. FirstEnergy is installing new generators, but they are not expected to fully solve the reliability issues. For households, the safest options include professional installation and considering battery backup systems. EVs can also serve as emergency power sources.
