It’s important to protect yourself from poisoning.
As winter storms sweep across the U.S., they bring with them a hidden danger: carbon monoxide (CO). Experts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) are cautioning the public about the lethal risks posed by CO, which is emitted by gas generators commonly used during power outages caused by severe weather.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 400 people in the U.S. die each year from CO poisoning, with around 92 of those deaths linked to portable generators. The CPSC emphasizes that these fatalities are preventable if proper safety precautions are followed.
For those in areas affected by winter storms, the CPSC provides several critical safety tips for using gas generators. First, never operate a generator indoors or near any structure, including garages, porches, or basements, as CO can accumulate quickly and even open windows or doors won’t be enough to disperse it. Generators should be placed at least 20 feet away from the home with their exhaust directed away from buildings. It’s also important to seal any vents or openings that might allow exhaust to enter the home. Additionally, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the safe use of the generator during adverse weather conditions, including precautions to prevent electrical shocks.
Many modern generators are equipped with CO safety shut-off features that automatically turn off the device if dangerous levels of the gas are detected. These models are often certified to meet the latest safety standards, which the CPSC says can significantly reduce the risk of CO poisoning.
The CPSC also stresses the importance of having working smoke and CO alarms in place, particularly before storms. These alarms should be installed on every level of the home and in each bedroom. Interconnected alarms are recommended, as they sound throughout the house when one detects danger. If an alarm sounds, it’s crucial to immediately exit the building and contact emergency services. Additionally, the CPSC warns against using wet electrical appliances, charcoal indoors, or leaving candles unattended due to the risks of electric shock, fire, and CO poisoning.
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