Michael Bove, vice president for engineering at Hartford SteamBoiler, offers the following advice to protect property if thepower goes out.

• Unplug computers, home entertainment systems and non-essentialequipment and appliances. This helps prevent surge damage whenelectrical power is restored.
• Operate portable generators only through a properly installedtransfer switch or plug appliances directly into the generatorusing a properly rated extension cord.
• Do not connect a generator to a home's electrical system whichcan feed power onto exterior power lines and cause an electrocutionrisk to utility employees
• Do not run portable generators in enclosed spaces such as agarage to avoid the danger of carbon monoxide.
• Limit opening refrigerator and freezer doors. Food will keeplonger if doors remain closed. If the power is out longer than twohours, throw away food that has a temperature higher than40°F.
• Do not use charcoal or gas grills or camp stoves for cooking inenclosed areas.
• Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume thelines are “live.” Call 911 to report any downed lines.
• Homeowners with automatic garage door openers should check themanufacturer's instructions to learn how to open the doormanually.