CENTRE, Ala.– With the potential for power outages during this weekend’s winter weather, Cherokee County EMA is reminding residents to use generators safely.

Generators should always be operated outdoors only, at least 10 to 25 feet away from your home and facing away from doors, windows, and vents. Never use a generator inside a house, garage, basement, or crawl space — even with doors open.

Store fuel in approved containers outside living areas, and always turn the generator off and let it cool before refueling.

Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords, and never plug a generator directly into your home’s wiring. Officials warn that back feeding power can seriously injure or kill utility workers restoring service.

Install battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms, since the gas is colorless and odorless.

Keep children away, operate generators on level ground, and allow at least five feet of clearance on all sides.

And if you see a downed power line or pole, never approach it — always assume it’s live.

Cherokee County EMA says additional updates and safety information will be provided throughout the winter weather event.