Stay Safe When Using Alternative Heat or Generators

By Hannah Blanton, BSN, RN, TCRN

By now, I’m sure everyone has seen or heard of the impending winter storm with possible power outages heading our way. Generators provide a source of power during an outage, but they can present serious health and safety concerns, including carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution and/or fire. Other sources of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home could include gas-powered space heaters (kerosene or propane heaters), faulty stoves, fireplaces or wood-burning appliances.

Carbon monoxide detectors are very important because carbon monoxide is completely colorless and odorless, making it a “silent killer” for humans and animals. To keep your family and pets safe, follow these tips from FEMA.

1. Do not use a generator indoors or in a partially enclosed space (homes, garages, crawl spaces).
2. Do not operate near open doors or windows; using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide build-up in the home.
3. Most importantly, install battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms inside your home to alert you of dangerous levels.

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when carbon monoxide builds up in the blood, replacing oxygen in the red blood cells with carbon monoxide.

Early symptoms include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

Late or progressed symptoms include:

• Confusion
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Vision changes
• Loss of consciousness

If you, a loved one, or a pet have been exposed to carbon monoxide, go outside to fresh air and seek medical attention. Oxygen therapy is needed to quickly clear the carbon monoxide from the blood.

Again, make sure to keep your generator outside, fuel it outside, turn it off and allow it to cool down before refueling. Do not store your fuel in your house; gasoline, propane, kerosene, diesel and other flammable liquids should be stored and labeled in proper containers and outside living areas.

Here are some safety tips for using space heaters or fireplaces for warmth:

Space Heaters:

• Keep them away from anything flammable: This includes furniture, curtains, bedding and even pets. A safe distance is at least three feet.
• Never leave them unattended: Turn off and unplug the space heater when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Use a timer: Many space heaters have timers that can automatically shut them off after a set period.
• Place them on a stable, flat surface: Avoid placing them on carpets or rugs, which can be flammable.
• Never use extension cords: Plug the space heater directly into a wall outlet.
• Look for safety features: Choose a space heater with features like tip-over protection and overheat protection.

Fireplaces:

• Have your chimney inspected annually: This will help ensure that there are no blockages or cracks that could lead to a fire.
• Use a fire screen: This will help to prevent sparks and embers from escaping the fireplace.
• Never burn trash or other flammable materials in the fireplace.
• Keep children and pets away from the fireplace.
• Open the damper before lighting a fire.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Use a fireplace tool to move logs and extinguish the fire.

By following these safety tips, you can help to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Stay warm and stay safe,

Trauma Services