If you buy one, learn how to use it.

If you buy a generator, please learn how to use it.

Generator safety is  paramount.  According to the United States Fire Academy, these devices pose a fire, electrical, and carbon monoxide hazard.

To overcome these hazards, one should read the instruction manual for the unit.  

To reduce carbon monoxide risks, one should "Always use generators outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents."

To reduce the fire hazard, one should "Always store fuel outside of living areas in properly labeled, nonglass containers."

To reduce shock hazards, one should "NEVER plug the generator into a wall outlet. This practice, known as backfeeding, can cause an electrocution risk to utility workers and others served by the same utility transformer." 

By following these and other tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, one can safely enjoy using a generator, rather than becoming a statistic such as this report from Wichita Falls.