Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly during a winter storm as families look to alternative heating methods after losing power in a winter storm. UVA Health’s Blue Ridge Poison Center is offering advice to keep safe if using a chimney or generator.
Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible gas formed as you burn fuel in portable power generators. If the generator is not located in a safe place, it can make its way inside homes.
Breathing it may cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, dizziness, weakness, convulsions, loss of consciousness and death. Very high concentrations of carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness in only a few breaths, according to BRPC.
“Power outages always bring a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning,” said Dr. Christopher Holstege, director of BRPC. “Since you cannot see, smell, or taste CO, you may not be aware that you are breathing it.”
Faulty, clogged or leaky gas furnaces or chimneys can also cause a dangerous amount of CO to build up inside homes, as can running vehicle engines in garages.
Other sources of CO include kerosene or propane heaters, woodstoves, gasoline-powered tools and charcoal or gas grills.
CO poisoning is often mistaken for the flu or other illnesses. If you suspect CO poisoning, or if your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move people and pets to fresh air and call 911.
For more information, contact the Blue Ridge Poison Center at (800) 222-1222.
BRPC: Carbon monoxide safety tips
Blue Ridge Poison Center encourages anyone who loses power to take these key safety steps:
- Place portable generators outdoors and at least 20 feet away from homes.
- Never use portable generators in enclosed spaces such as garages, basements, porches, attics or crawl spaces.
- Don’t use gasoline-powered tools (snow blowers, chain saws) in enclosed spaces.
- Do not use a gas oven, charcoal grill or camping stove to heat your home.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms.
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Crystal Graham
