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Home Safety

NEW! Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning Prevention

 

When power outages occur after severe weather (such as severe storms, hurricanes, or tornadoes), using alternate sources of power--portable generators, stoves, lanterns, and gas ranges, or by burning charcoal and wood--can cause carbon monoxide (CO) to build up in a home and poison the people and animals inside. Every year, at least 430 people die in the US from accidental CO poisoning. CO poisoning is entirely preventable. You can protect yourself and your family by acting wisely in case of a power outage and learning the symptoms of CO poisoning. 

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How To Recognize CO Poisoning

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The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms.

 

CO Poisoning Prevention Tips

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  • Change the batteries in your CO detector every six months. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO detector, buy one soon.

  • Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.

  • Never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open, unless the equipment is professionally installed and vented. Keep vents and flues free of debris, especially if winds are high. Flying debris can block ventilation lines.

  • Never run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine less than 20 feet from an open window, door, or vent where exhaust can vent into an enclosed area.

  • Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or camper.

  • If conditions are too hot, seek shelter with friends or at a community shelter.

  • If CO poisoning is suspected, consult a health care professional right away.

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For more information, please visit the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning website.

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