06/21/2023
Tulsa Fire Department HazMat crews responded to around 20 Carbon Monoxide calls yesterday that were caused by people utilizing portable generators too close to their homes.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon monoxide, referred to as the “Silent Killer”, is a poison gas that you cannot see or smell. Death can occur within minutes of inhalation if the levels emitted are high enough.
Generator exhaust emits carbon monoxide.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include, but are not limited to, headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and disorientation.
If you are experiencing any of these while operating a generator seek fresh air and medical attention immediately. Do NOT go to sleep.
🚨NEVER operate your generator indoors (including in your garage or basements), even if you have windows and/or doors open for ventilation.
🚨Do NOT place your generator too close to windows, doors and/or vents while it is outside. Carbon monoxide could still enter your home if your generator is too close to these types of openings. Federal agencies such as CPSC and CDC recommend placing your generator a minimum of twenty (20) ft. away from homes, windows, doors and vents.
🚨Do NOT rely on the use of fans for adequate or additional ventilation in order to run the generator indoors.
