Ike’s Aftermath: Carbon Monoxide from Generators Can Kill in Minutes

Scott Kappes

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As we all work to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ike it is important to follow some simple safety guidelines to keep you and your family safe. Several people in the Houston and Galveston area have already died from carbon monoxide poisoning resulting from the use of gasoline powered generators. Generators can quickly produce deadly amounts of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can quickly kill you and your family in matter of minutes.

Portable generators should never be used indoors; this includes the garage. It is also important to remember that dangerous carbon monoxide can enter the home through open windows, even if the generator is being used outside.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that those who are using portable generators install CO alarms with battery backup inside the home, especially in sleeping areas.

With over 1 million people still without electricity and thousands depending on portable generators for their only source of power in the Houston area carbon monoxide poisoning is a very real danger and should not be taken lightly.

For more information on generator safety and Hurricane safety tips visit the CPSC website.

I wish everyone in Houston, Galveston, and the surrounding communities a speedy recovery.