As temperatures drop and with the possibility of power outages overnight, watch out for carbon monoxide.
Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
As temperatures drop and with the possibility of power outages overnight, watch out for carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a clear, odorless gas that is poisonous enough to kill a person in minutes if they are exposed to unsafe levels in an enclosed area. A carbon monoxide alarm can detect the gas, and it’s important for alarms to be installed and in working order. However, no alarm can substitute for preventing carbon monoxide exposure in the first place.
During a power outage, people need to be aware that certain methods of heating their homes or cooking food are dangerous because they produce carbon monoxide.
Do not use a charcoal or gas grill, generator, or portable propane heater in an enclosed space such as a house or garage.
Do not use a generator inside your home or near a door, window or vent. Generators should be at least 20 feet away from buildings.
Do not heat your home using a gas range or oven.
Do not sleep in a room while using an unvented gas or kerosene heater.
Do not run a snow blower or idle a car in a garage, even with the door open.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, weakness, dizziness, confusion, fatigue and nausea. If you suspect someone has been poisoned by carbon monoxide, immediately move them into a place with fresh air and seek medical help.