Question 1

How far should a portable generator be from my house?

Accepted Answer

At least 20 feet, outdoors only, with the exhaust pointed away from the home — per CPSC guidance. Never in a garage, basement, shed, porch, or carport.

Question 2

Can I run a portable generator in the rain?

Accepted Answer

Only as your owner's manual allows. Some manufacturers permit an NFPA-rated non-combustible generator tent; others instruct you to wait until rain passes because of shock hazards. Never improvise a cover that traps exhaust.

Question 3

Do I still need CO alarms if I follow the 20-foot rule?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Place battery-operated or battery-backup CO alarms on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Interconnected alarms are best.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Accepted Answer

Headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion. Get to fresh air immediately and call 911 if you suspect exposure.

Question 5

Is a standby generator worth it in New Orleans?

Accepted Answer

If you face multi-day outages during hurricane season and want automatic, whole-house backup without refueling, a standby is worth a conversation. Call (504) 552-3785 and we will walk you through sizing and fuel options.

Portable Generator Safety in New Orleans: CO Dangers, the 20-Foot Rule, and When a Standby Makes Sense

When a hurricane knocks out power in Southeast Louisiana, a portable generator can feel like a lifeline. It keeps the fridge cold, a fan running, and the phones charged. But that same machine can also fill your home with an invisible, odorless gas that kills in minutes.

Why Portable Generators Are So Dangerous

The 20-Foot Rule and Placement Done Right

CO Alarms: Your Second Line of Defense

The Realities of Running a Portable for Days

When a Standby Generator Makes Sense

FAQ

How far should a portable generator be from my house?

Can I run a portable generator in the rain?

Do I still need CO alarms if I follow the 20-foot rule?

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Is a standby generator worth it in New Orleans?

The Bottom Line

Portable Generator Safety in New Orleans: CO Dangers, the 20-Foot Rule, and When a Standby Makes Sense

When a hurricane knocks out power in Southeast Louisiana, a portable generator can feel like a lifeline. It keeps the fridge cold, a fan running, and the phones charged. But that same machine can also fill your home with an invisible, odorless gas that kills in minutes.

Why Portable Generators Are So Dangerous

The 20-Foot Rule and Placement Done Right

CO Alarms: Your Second Line of Defense

The Realities of Running a Portable for Days

When a Standby Generator Makes Sense

FAQ

Question

How far should a portable generator be from my house?

Question

Can I run a portable generator in the rain?

Question

Do I still need CO alarms if I follow the 20-foot rule?

Question

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Question

Is a standby generator worth it in New Orleans?

The Bottom Line