When a storm hits and the power goes out, many people reach for a portable generator. When not used properly, however, generators can be extremely dangerous—exposing you and your family to carbon monoxide, or causing a fire.

If you have a portable generator, or the recent storms in Virginia have you thinking about getting one, take note of these important safety basics:

1. Always read the generator’s instructions. If you lost them, contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
2. Never use a generator indoors, or in an attached garage—even with the door open. Place it outdoors in a dry, well-ventilated area away from any doors, windows, or vents to your home or your neighbors’ homes. Even though it’s outside, protect it from direct exposure to rain or snow.
3. Don’t install your generator directly to your home’s wiring—leave that to the professionals, and always check with your utility company first. You could damage your generator or utility equipment or cause a deadly backfeed into the power lines that can kill a lineman even miles away.
4. Don’t plug a generator into your home’s electrical outlets. Instead, connect a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated power cord to the generator, and then connect appliances to the power cord. Make sure the cord can handle the load.
5. Limit the appliances you’re powering with the generator, so it’s not overloaded. If you hook up too much you can damage the appliances, or spark a fire. Try rotating larger items to lessen the overall load.
6. Store gasoline for your generator only in approved safety containers, and never keep it indoors or in a garage with a water heater or other fuel-burning appliance.
7. Turn off the generator and let it cool down before refueling. And turn off all appliances powered by the generator before you shut it down for refueling.
8. Don’t leave your generator unattended, and turn it off at night or if you leave home.
9. Keep a fully charged fire extinguisher near your generator.
10. Consider using a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm in your home when you’re using your generator, if you don’t already have an alarm in place.

Owning a generator is a big responsibility, and it requires maintenance just like anything else. Before storm season begins, it’s a good idea to inspect it to make sure it’s fully operational. And before you put it away, always make sure to follow safe storage procedures—so it’s ready for next time.