Safety and Preparedness

How To Protect Your Family From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning During A Power Outage

At a Glance

Carbon monoxide kills an average of 430 people in the U.S. each year.
Tens of thousands of others are treated at hospitals.
Heat and power outages after storms can be a deadly combination.

Generator use brings with it the silent threat of carbon monoxide poisoning, especially during power outages caused by storms or other issues.

We asked Nicolette Nye, a spokesperson for the Consumer Product Safety Commission, to explain what people need to know most about CO poisoning and how to keep themselves and their families safe.

Here's what she told us, along with more information gathered from the CPSC website and other expert sources.

Why Is Carbon Monoxide So Dangerous?

You can't see or smell carbon monoxide, and it can overcome a person before anyone even knows it's happening.

Carbon monoxide affects red blood cells that carry oxygen through the body. Too much CO crowds out the oxygen.

"CO can build up so quickly that you can go unconscious before feeling the typical mild carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms of nausea, headache and fatigue," Nye said.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that CO kills an average of 430 people per year. Some 50,000 people are treated each year in emergency rooms.

Where Does Carbon Monoxide Come From?

Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burning gasoline, propane, wood, charcoal and other fuel.

Fuel-burning space heaters and using or burning items that aren't designed for indoor use - such as charcoal or gas grills, pieces of wood and portable generators - are also a common source.

Faulty or improperly maintained gas appliances, gas furnaces and fireplaces can leak carbon monoxide. Vehicle exhaust in a garage or other enclosed area can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

CO Poisoning Can Happen Anytime Of Year

At least six people died from carbon monoxide poisoning after Hurricane Ida in Louisiana in 2021, according to the state Department of Health.

Deaths are more common during the winter months, when people are heating their homes.

"This is not only when furnaces are most used, but also when portable generators are used to power homes during power outages caused by winter weather conditions, such as ice or snowstorms," Nye said. "Gasoline-powered generators can produce as much CO as hundreds or even thousands of cars."

The CPSC estimates that more than 750 people died over the past 10 years from CO poisoning associated with portable generators, she added.

Extended power outages during a stretch of extreme cold in Texas in 2021 led to at least 11 deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning. Some 1,400 people were treated in medical facilities.

Portable generators should always be at least 20 feet from any enclosed or covered space.
((Federal Emergency Management Agency))

An Open Window Isn't Enough

It's never OK to use a generator inside.

"Opening doors and windows will not provide enough ventilation to prevent the buildup of lethal levels of carbon monoxide from a portable generator," Nye said. "This is why you should NEVER operate a portable generator or use a charcoal grill inside your home, garage, basement, shed or crawlspace."

Alarms Are Key To Prevent CO Poisoning

Carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Similar to smoke alarms, basic models can be found at big box stores for less than $20.

"Install battery-operated CO alarms or CO alarms with battery backup on each level and outside separate sleeping areas at home," Nye said. "Interconnected CO alarms are best; when one sounds, they all sound."

Alarms should be tested once a month, and should always have battery power.

Carbon monoxide detectors are the best way to protect against CO poisoning. (Federal Emergency Management Agency) — Carbon monoxide detectors are the best way to protect against CO poisoning.
((Federal Emergency Management Agency))

Home heating systems, chimneys and flues should be inspected annually by a professional. All appliances, space heaters, generators and other products should be operated only according to manufacturer's instruction and in areas intended for their use. Vents should be kept clear of debris, including snow and ice.