the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, last week, a series of strong thunderstorms across New Jersey left many residents without power. During the outage, many relied on portable generators until electric companies restored service. With more soggy and stormy weather on the horizon, the New Jersey Poison Control Center is issuing an important warning about the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure from fuel-powered generators.
Hidden Dangers of Carbon Monoxide
“Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the hidden hazards that worry us here at the poison control center during and after storms,” said Bruce Ruck, managing director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. “Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas, and people and pets are often accidentally exposed to it when fuel-powered generators are used in unsafe places. Since carbon monoxide gives no warning, it’s important you regularly test your home carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working.”
Safe Generator Use
To prevent unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, always operate generators outdoors. Fuel-powered equipment should never be used indoors under any circumstances, as dangerous levels of carbon monoxide can build up quickly, poisoning anyone nearby.
Recognizing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be mistaken for common illnesses like colds, flu, or COVID-19. These symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. If symptoms improve when you go outside, carbon monoxide poisoning could be the cause.
Importance of CO Detectors
The only way to detect carbon monoxide in your home is with working CO detectors. If a CO detector sounds its alarm, do not ignore it. Get everyone, including pets, out to fresh air immediately. “Every minute counts in situations involving carbon monoxide,” said Ruck. “Contact the poison center for personalized medical guidance and care.”
What to Do If You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If someone is unconscious or unresponsive, get them out of the house and call 9-1-1 immediately. Leave the house or building right away without opening windows, which will delay your escape and cause you to breathe in more dangerous fumes. Contact your local fire department or energy provider and call the New Jersey Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for fast medical advice. Avoid searching for information online and rely on the poison center for free and accurate information, available 24/7.
Generator Safety Tips
- Use generators outside only, never indoors.
- Keep generators more than 20 feet from your home and neighbors’ homes, including doors, windows, and vents.
- Use gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices outdoors only.
Indoor Safety Measures
- Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.
- Regularly check CO detectors and replace them if necessary.
- Avoid running a car in the garage, as carbon monoxide gas can build up quickly.
- Be cautious with remote start engines that may turn on without your knowledge.
If you think someone has been exposed to carbon monoxide, contact the New Jersey Poison Control Center immediately for medical guidance and care. The poison control center is a resource for both the public and healthcare providers, offering help 24/7. Call 1-800-222-1222 or chat online. If someone is not breathing, hard to wake up, or having a seizure, call 9-1-1 immediately.
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