Portable Generator Hazards

For a printable version (pdf) of this fact sheet, click here

For a pdf poster on Using Portable Generators Safely, click here

Portable generators are useful when temporary or remote electric power is needed. However, if used incorrectly, gasoline, kerosene, and other gas-powered generators can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shocks, fires, and burns. Generator accidents can be fatal!

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning
Every year, people die in accidents related to portable generator use. For example, a young camper was killed by CO from a portable generator's exhaust tube adjacent to the victim's campsite. Most deaths involve CO poisoning from portable generators used indoors or in partially-enclosed spaces. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that between 1999 and 2004 portable generators caused 172 CO poisoning deaths in the U.S. (More....)

NFPA 1 Fire Code Seminar encore

This summer, Wisconsin Department of Commerce hosted four sessions on the 2009 changes to the NFPA 1 Fire Code. I attended one, and thought it was well done and informative. Due to demand, one more session will be offered on Saturday, January 22, 2011, in Stevens Point at the Holiday Inn and Convention Center, 1001 Amber Ave.  Further details will be announced in mid-September on the Fire Prevention Program website.


Note 9/27/2010: The details for the January session are now available.

Links: 
http://commerce.wi.gov/SB/SB-FirePreventionProgram.html
http://commerce.wi.gov/SB/docs/SB-EducationFirePrevNFPABrochJan2011.pdf

DNR Secretary Matt Frank announces staff changes at DNR

News Release Published: July 29, 2010 by the Central Office

Contact(s): Laurel Steffes (608) 266-8109

MADISON – Department of Natural Resources Secretary Matt Frank announced Thursday that veteran staffer Al Shea will replace Deputy Secretary Pat Henderson, who is leaving the agency to pursue options in the private sector. Henderson has served as deputy since 2007.

“Pat has done a tremendous job as my deputy and has been an invaluable leader within the agency and in Governor Doyle’s administration. I thank him for his tremendous service to the people of Wisconsin,” said Frank. (More....)