The Health Ministry is reminding the public to follow the guidelines when using a generator to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

In a statement, the Ministry said generators should not be used indoors or in enclosed areas, and they should be kept in a dry area.

It explains that water will damage generators as well as produce an electrical hazard.

The generator should be kept at a safe distance from structures because of engine heat.

People should avoid using appliances that have a heating element, for example, a toaster or hair dryer and select the outlet that uses the correct voltage, as some generators can produce 115 to 120 volts or 220 volts.