Improper Generator Use Hospitalizes Residents
Bartow, Fla. (September 12, 2017) — Polk County Fire Rescue transported patients in two separate incidents this morning, and area hospitals are having patients present in their Emergency Rooms, with carbon monoxide poisoning.
One incident took place in the southwest Lakeland and the other in Lake Alfred. In both incidents, a generator was running in an enclosed garage.
Portable generators are useful during power outages, but improper use can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. Cooking in enclosed areas with gas grills is also extremely dangerous.
Here is what you should know:
· Generators and gas grills should be operated in well-ventilated locations, outdoors, away from all doors, windows and vent openings.
· Never use a generator or gas grill in an attached garage, even with the door open.
· Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors or other openings in the building.
· Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for correct placement and mounting height.
· Turn off generators and let them cool down before refueling. Never refuel a generator while it is running.
· Store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for the purpose and is correctly labeled. Store the containers outside of living areas. Propane tanks should also be turned off when not in use and stored outdoors.
· Do not connect a generator to your home’s electrical system without a licensed electrician providing a means to connect. Improper wiring creates the danger of back feeding the power system, energizing downed lines and fatally electrocuting anyone that contacts those lines.
The Department of Health reminds you 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. DO NOT DELAY.
If you have a poisoning emergency, call your nearest Florida Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911 immediately.
