Look after your portable generator… Service it regularly.

Read the manufacturers instructions…

Keep them at least 10 feet from any structure, with the exhaust facing away from the building’s openings. Dangerous exhaust fumes can enter buildings through any opening resulting in severe injury or death.
Allow plenty of time to cool them before refueling. Gas vapors can ignite from hot surfaces causing a flash fire and injuries.
Never locate them on or near combustible surfaces such as decks, porches, or sheds. Heat generated by the motor, or improper refueling methods can start a fire.
Never run them inside a building, including basement areas and garages. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can build up in minutes injuring occupants with little to no warning.
Always store approved gasoline containers a safe distance from generators while in use.
Always store gasoline in an approved container placed in a well ventilated storage area.
Never store gasoline products in basements or enclosed areas of your dwelling.
Never modify or construct any power cord so a generator can be connected to an electrical outlet.
Never connect them directly to the breaker-box without using a qualified electrician.  Connecting a generator directly to an electrical outlet or to a breaker-box without a transfer switch or an interlocking device could energize the utility’s wiring (back feeding into the utility system). Electrical power from a generator back fed through your meter into the utility system can cause fires, serious injury or death to utility workers trying to repair the lines in the street, or electricians working on nearby property’s electrical systems.

Always check with the local authorities to see if a permit is required to use a generator.