Safety · 12 October 2026
Living safely with a generator
Most Nigerian homes still own a generator, even with an inverter. Used carelessly, it is the most dangerous machine in the house. These are the rules our engineers live by.
Outside, always
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which has no smell and can kill in a closed space. Never run a generator in a garage, a corridor, a boys quarters or under a window.
Keep it at least three metres from any door or window, with the exhaust pointing away from the house.
A proper changeover
Plugging a generator into a wall socket can send power back into the grid and electrocute a lineman. Always use a changeover switch, so the house is either on grid or on generator, never both.
With a Tervo hybrid inverter, the changeover is automatic and the generator only starts when it is truly needed.
Grid or generator, never both at once.
Fuel with care
Turn the generator off and let it cool for ten minutes before refuelling. Store petrol in approved containers, outside, away from children and away from the house.
Fit an alarm
A carbon monoxide alarm costs less than a tank of petrol and can save a family. Fit one near bedrooms and test it monthly. We supply and fit them at cost for any client.
In short
- Run generators outside, three metres from the house
- Use a proper changeover switch
- Refuel only when the engine is cool
- Fit a carbon monoxide alarm
New Owerri, Imo State
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