Arkansas
Winter Weather Approaching
CPSC Warns Winter Storm Victims:
WASHINGTON, D.C.
- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is issuing a warning
to consumers confronted with ice storms and severe winter weather. When there's
a power outage, exercise caution when using portable generators.
Carbon monoxide
(CO) is an invisible killer. You can't see or smell it.
A generator's exhaust contains poisonous CO which can kill you in a matter
of minutes.
Last year, at least 65 people died from generator-related CO poisoning. Many of
the deaths occurred after winter storms knocked out power.
Follow these important generator safety tips:
| Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage, shed or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open. |
| Place portable generators outside only, far away from the home. And keep the generator away from openings to the home, including doors, windows and vents. |
|
Read the label on the generator and the owner's manual, and follow the instructions.
|
|
Install CO alarms with battery backup in the
home outside each sleeping area.
|
| Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death. |
|
Last year, CPSC mandated a new danger label on generators manufactured after May 14, 2007. The label states that, "Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES." |