CO can be deadly if not handled correctly

ORLANDO, Fla. — With power out across the state and the increase in the use of gas-powered generators, the Florida Department of Health wants you to be aware of carbon monoxide dangers.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas, that is highly poisonous. Exposure may cause fatigue, weakness, chest pains, shortness of breath upon exertion, nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, lack of coordination, impaired vision, loss of consciousness, and in severe cases, death.

Here are precautions to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

-- Do not burn charcoal or gas grills inside a house, garage, vehicle, tent or fireplace;

-- Never use a generator indoors including in homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces or other enclosed or partially enclosed areas, even with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO build-up in the home;

-- Always locate the unit outdoors on a dry surface, away from doors, windows, vents, and air conditioning equipment that could allow CO to come indoors. Follow the instructions that come with your generator;

-- Install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with battery back-up in your home, according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The CO alarms should be certified to the requirements of the latest safety standards for CO alarms (UL 2034, IAS 6-96, or CSA 6.19.01);

-- Test your CO alarms frequently and replace dead batteries;

-- Remember that you cannot see or smell CO and portable generators can produce high levels of CO very quickly;

-- If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air right away;

-- In an emergency, call the Florida Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911 immediately;

For more information, please contact your local county health department or visit www.floridahealth.gov or www.FloridaDisaster.org.

WFTV staff