Never use or run a generator indoors, or even near areas that could allow exhaust gas to enter your home or shelter. This is serious stuff, PEOPLE DIE EVERY TIME THERE IS A DISASTER. We need very strong warnings required on all generators. I would even be for a proper operation and placement certification program to be run by local disaster orginizations.
I hate to read abou the needless deaths caused by unsafe generator use every time there is a blackout, but it happens every time. Safe generator operation and placement is a matter of life and death. It doesn't take hours or days, it can kill in mere minutes.
Unfortunately a bad generator placement decision can cost lives. I was reading this blog and came across this short post on http://instapundit.com/archives2/2006/12/post_1058.php.
where the writer describes a neighbor losing a child due to an improperly placed generator.
If you have the slightest doubt or concern regarding generator use, do not use it until you get someone who is familiar with safe generator operation to help you. In some areas you can call the fire department, if nothing else they will tell you how bad carbon monoxide poisoning is. How may people go to sleep and never wake up.
I am sorry for the harsh post, but if continuing to post these kinds of messages can save one life, it was worth it.
Please call an electrician, fireman, plumber, or other certified generator installer to get you up and running SAFELY. Remember Generators are dangerous on many levels. Please check with local codes and Owner's Manuals to find out the how, when, who, and where of generator installations.
Additional Information:
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=23413
http://www.wnep.com/Global/story.asp?S=5926390&nav=menu158_3
