North Star M165938N - Manual (Page 43)

Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation (cont’d)
43
• Carbon monoxide exhaust. The running engine gives off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill
you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using the
generator, shut off the engine and get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon
monoxide poisoning.
• Other exhaust dangers. This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Avoid inhalation of exhaust.
• Smoking/sparks. Never smoke near the running generator, and never operate near sources of sparks or
flames.
• Check output voltage. Check output voltage to ensure the generator is working properly before connecting
loads to the generator. Failure to do so could result in damage to equipment powered by the generator and
possible injury to the individual. Do not adjust output speed of engine to change voltage. If voltage is not
within specified range, have generator repaired by factory authorized personnel.
• Stabilize before connecting loads. Start generator and let engine stabilize before connecting electrical loads.
• Do not overload. Do not overload the generator. Make sure that combined starting and running loads do not
exceed rated capacity of generator or damage will result.
• Protect sensitive electronics. Some electronic equipment, such as computers and audio/video equipment,
can be damaged by small fluctuations in the flow of power. Use a surge suppressor for any voltage-sensitive
electronic equipment you will be powering with the generator.
• Wet conditions. Do not operate the generator or handle any electrical equipment while standing in water,
while barefoot, while hands are wet or while in the rain or snow. Electric shock may result.
• Ground fault circuit interrupter. Always use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected extension
cord (or outlet, if generator is equipped) in damp or highly electrical conductive areas and on construction
jobsites to prevent electrical shock.
• Electrical cords. Use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated, three prong extension cords of the proper size. All
extension and appliance cords must be in good condition and not worn, bare, frayed, or otherwise damaged.
Use of inadequate or damaged electric cords can cause electric shock or fire.
• Avoid contact. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, connections, etc. while the unit is running.
• Electric shock accident. If an electric shock accident occurs, immediately shut down the source of electrical
power. If this is not possible, attempt to free the victim from the live conductor. Avoid direct contact with
victim. Use a nonconducting implement, such as a dry rope or board, to free the victim from the live
conductor. Apply first aid and get immediate medical help.
• Hot muffler. Never touch hot muffler, hot exhaust manifold, or engine cooling fins. Exhaust and engine parts
can be very hot and will burn you.
• Moving parts. Keep hands, feet, and apparel away from drive belts, fans, and other moving parts. Never
remove any drive belt or fan guard while the unit is operating.
• Refueling. DO NOT refuel the engine until it has cooled at least two minutes.
• Malfunction during operation. Immediately turn off the generator if any of the following conditions arise
during operation:
o Excessive change in engine speed, slow or fast
o Overheating in load connecting devices
o Sparking or arcs from generator
o Loss of electrical output
o Receptacle damage
o Engine misfire
o Excessive vibration
o Flame or smoke
o Abnormal noise
• Adjusting / repairing. Always turn off generator and remove spark plug(s) or spark plug wire(s) before
working on the generator to prevent accidental starting.