Take It Outside™ – Carbon Monoxide Kills
UPDATED: FEBRUARY 2022
Carbon Monoxide Generator Safety: The Big Picture
As the only safe way to use a portable generator, taking your generator outside is absolutely mandatory to keep your family safe from carbon monoxide gas. But there’s even more you can do. By educating yourself about all carbon monoxide risks, you’ll be better prepared to protect your family from this colorless, odorless threat.
1. Always read the owner’s manual first
Before starting your portable generator it’s important to read the operator’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended carbon monoxide incident precautions and procedures.
Knowing the tips for generator safety are very beneficial for you and the people around you. Never operate a generator indoors and keep your generator functioning properly by learning how to winterize your generator.
A carbon monoxide detector will alert your family before toxic CO levels are reached. Make sure your CO alarm meets current UL 2034 safety standards and check the battery regularly. If you're in a large space or home, install a carbon monoxide alarm in your garage and any enclosed space that could potentially threaten carbon monoxide exposure.
3. Keep it away from windows and doors
A generator shouldn't be run in an enclosed space or attached garage but even if you're outdoors you should be on the lookout for any door or window around you. To prevent CO emissions from drifting indoors, always place your portable generator as far as possible away from doors and windows.
4. Point fumes away from nearby people
Since portable generators sit in one place and run for an extended time, it’s important to place it downwind and point the engine exhaust away from any nearby people.
5. Know the symptoms
Know the symptoms. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath and fatigue. If you experience CO poisoning symptoms, get to fresh air immediately and if it worsens, contact emergency services as soon as possible.
6. If you feel the symptoms, leave right away
A very dangerous level of carbon monoxide exposure can cause victims to lose consciousness. So, if you experience CO poisoning symptoms, don’t attempt to turn off the power generator before moving to fresh air. If symptoms begin to worsen, contact emergency services as soon as possible.
