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Providing safe, reliable service to central South Dakota since November 1949.

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Electrical Safety and Generators

Preventing Electrocutions Associated with Portable Generators Plugged Into Household Circuits

When power lines are down, residents can restore energy to their homes or other structures by using another power source such as a portable generator. If water has been present anywhere near electrical circuits and electrical equipment, turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician.

If it is necessary to use a portable generator, manufacturer recommendations and specifications must be strictly followed. If there are any questions regarding the operation or installation of the portable generator, a qualified electrician should be immediately contacted to assist in installation and start-up activities. The generator should always be positioned outside the structure.

When using gasoline- and diesel-powered portable generators to supply power to a building, switch the main breaker or fuse on the service panel to the "off" position prior to starting the generator. This will prevent power lines from being inadvertently energized by backfeed electrical energy from the generators, and help protect utility line workers or other repair workers or people in neighboring buildings from possible electrocution. If the generator is plugged into a household circuit without turning the main breaker to the “off” position or removing the main fuse, the electrical current could reverse, go back through the circuit to the outside power grid, and energize power lines or electrical systems in other buildings to at or near their original voltage without the knowledge of utility or other workers.

Effects of Backfeed

The problem of backfeed in electrical energy is a potential risk for electrical energy workers. Electrocutions are the fifth leading cause of all reported occupational deaths. Following the safety guidelines below can reduce this risk.

Other Generator Hazards

Generator use is also a major cause of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Generators should only be used in well ventilated areas.

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204 Main St. Murdo, SD 57559

Business Hours: 8:00 – 4:30 CT
Monday through Friday

Phone: 605-669-8100

©2025 West Central Electric Cooperative, Inc. All Rights Reserved..

  • Your Cooperative
    • Bylaws
    • Capital Credits
    • History
    • How Your Co-op Works
      • ACRE
      • Cooperative Principles
      • Touchstone Energy Cooperatives
      • Power of Membership
    • Meet the Board of Directors
    • Meet the Staff
    • Service Area
    • Office Hours
      • Contact Us
    • Equipment for Sale
    • Job Openings
    • Statement of Non-Discrimination
  • My Account
    • AutoPay
    • Bill Variations
    • Billing Information
    • Budget Billing
    • How to Read Your Bill
    • Meter Reading
    • Past Due Accounts
    • Update My Information
  • Member Services
    • Co-op Connections
    • Economic Development
      • REED Fund
    • Scholarship Program
    • Survey
    • Youth Tour
    • Basin Electric Members Bus Tour
  • Electrical Operations
    • Apply for New Service
      • Request Service
    • Call Before You Dig - 811
    • Down Power Lines
    • Grain Bin Restrictions
    • GRIP1/WARN Project
  • Safety
    • Safety Quiz
    • Electrical Safety and Generators
    • Down Power Lines
    • Grain Bin Restrictions
  • Energy Resources
    • Energy Conservation
    • Energy Links
    • Together We Save
    • Energy Assistance