Disaster Officials Warn: Don't Use Generators Inside The House
Release Date: October 7, 2005
Release Number: 1603-068
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BATON ROUGE, La. -- For residents purchasing generators to provide heat and electricity for their homes, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the State of Louisiana , and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warn of the danger of running the generator inside the house, or an attached garage or carport.
Vice Admiral Thad Allen, principal federal official and federal coordinating officer for Hurricane Katrina recovery effort, and Col. Jeff Smith, state coordinating officer, advise residents that the improper use of generators, other gas-powered tools and pressure washers can have serious consequences. The use of a generator or any gas-powered tool inside a house can be deadly. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer.
The CDC offers the following cautions on the use of gas-powered generators and other tools:
- Do not use generators, charcoal or gas grills, propane camping stoves or heaters, or any gas-powered tools inside the house or garage.
- If you must use one of these devices, use it only outside and away from open windows. Opening windows for ventilation does not provide enough air circulation for these items to be operated inside. Use a long, outdoor-rated extension cord for the generator, so you can locate the generator away from the house.
- If you use a pressure washer, place the engine outside and away from any open windows or doors.
- Do not use your gas stove to dry out or heat your home. Do not leave your gas stove on while you sleep.
- Carbon monoxide is a gas you can't smell or see that comes from these items. It can quickly build up inside your home or enclosed space and poison the people and animals inside. Children, pets, and individuals with heart disease, lung problems, or anemia can be affected more quickly.
- Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause you to pass out or die. The most common symptoms of exposure are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms.
FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Friday, 07-Oct-2005 15:38:28