Carbon Monoxide Poisonings a Problem After Hurricanes

Stay Safe During Long-Term Power Outages

Mebane, NC, September 26, 2005 - The aftermath of Hurricane Rita has left thousands of Texas and Louisiana residents without power, and it could be a month before electricity is fully restored. As some families begin cleanup and as more are able to return home, alternative sources such as gasoline-powered generators and charcoal grills may be used to supply electricity and cook food. But when used improperly, these fuel-burning appliances can quickly cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, leading to serious injuries or even death.

Know the Facts

• Media have reported that a Beaumont family of five apparently died of CO poisoning from a generator used to power their apartment after Hurricane Rita.
• Unofficial estimates indicate that CO poisoning from generators claimed 11 lives and injured dozens more after Hurricane Katrina.
• Carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless and invisible, and its symptoms mimic the flu. Only a battery-powered or battery backup CO alarm will provide warning to CO exposure.
• Using a charcoal or gas grill to cook food, a pressure-washer to clean up flood debris, or any other gas-powered engine or tool inside your home or in an attached structure poses a major CO risk, even if doors and windows are open.
• House candle fires often start during a power outage and claim about 90 lives a year, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Safety Steps


• Install battery-operated CO alarms and smoke alarms on every floor and in sleeping areas, and check the batteries in your hardwired alarms.
• Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher , within reach in rooms where fires are most likely to start - the kitchen, garage, bedroom, living room, laundry room and any room with a chimney.
• Do not operate a generator in spaces attached to your home, such as porches, patios or garages. Only operate the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated, dry area, away from air intakes to the home and protected from direct exposure to rain.
• Follow the manufacturers' instructions when using generators. Use the appropriate sized and type power cords and never run them under rugs or carpets. Overloaded or covered cords could overheat and cause fires.
• Do not use a charcoal or gas grill inside your home or outside near a window where CO fumes could seep into your home.
• Ensure that storm debris hasn't blocked exhaust flues or ducts for appliances like water heaters, ranges and clothes dryers.
• During storm cleanup, place the pump and power unit of high-pressure washers outside and away from air intakes to the home. Run only the wash line inside.
• Use battery-powered flashlights or lamps for light whenever possible.
• Extinguish all candles before going to sleep, or when leaving the house or a room where one has been burning for a long time.
• Use a fire extinguisher to put out a small, self-contained fire when there is a clear exit behind you, or to create a pathway to safety when all exits or escape routes are blocked. Always call the fire department before you try and extinguish a fire yourself.
• Respect all fires, regardless of size. The main objective is safe escape.