Where should I place a portable generator?

Outdoors only, at least 20 feet from the home, with the exhaust pointed away from windows, doors, and vents, according to the CPSC. Never run one inside a home, garage, crawl space, shed, or other enclosed space, even with doors open, because carbon monoxide can kill within minutes. Install working CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas. OSHA also advises storing fuel in approved containers away from living areas and the running generator, and using grounded, properly rated extension cords. CPSC recommends models certified to the newer PGMA G300-2023 or UL 2201-2023 standards, which include automatic CO shutoff.

Sources

• CPSC Warns of Generator, Carbon Monoxide and Fire Hazards Ahead of Hurricane SeasonU.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
• Using Portable Generators SafelyU.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration