Carbon monoxide is a non-irritating, odorless, colorless, and tasteless air pollutant (gas). CO poisoning can happen so quickly that people can pass out or become disoriented before recognizing the symptoms.

Common sources of CO:

• Portable, gas-powered generators
• Vehicles
• Grills or stoves (charcoal, wood, or gas)
• Lawn equipment (gas-powered lawn mowers, leaf blowers, etc.)
• Power tools (gas-powered saws, air compressors, etc.)

Common symptoms of CO poisoning: 

• Unusual tiredness
• Headache
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Confusion or bizarre behavior
• Passing out or fainting

Portable generators are often used during natural disasters when temporary power is needed. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from portable generators can happen so quickly that people can pass out or become disoriented before recognizing the symptoms. CO is a non-irritating, odorless, colorless, and tasteless air pollutant (gas).

Use a generator safely:

1. Never use a generator inside or in garages, carports, or patios.
2. Generators should be placed at least 20+ feet away from windows, doors, and A/C intake vents.
3. Install battery-operated CO detectors near all sleeping areas, and on every level of your home.

Use fuel-burning devices safely

• Do not use fuel-burning devices such as grills, stoves, gas-powered heaters, etc., in an enclosed space without proper ventilation.
• Do not use grills or other fuel-burning devices to cook in your home.
• Never use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home.
• Do not keep your car running in your garage, even with the door open. Keep running vehicles at least 20 feet away from your house.

Prolonged power outages and contamination with flood water are two of the biggest risks to your food. Poison Centers typically see an increase in calls related to foodborne illnesses after a storm. 

Food safety:

During a power outage, food will generally remain safe for: 

1. Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain their cold temperatures.
2. Throw away food that may be spoiled. When in doubt, throw it out!

Water storage:

It is recommended to have one (1) gallon of water per person per day (for at least 3 days) available for drinking and sanitation.

1. Do not store in bottles/jugs that were used for non-edible products, such as chemical jugs.
2. Do not store in direct sunlight or heat.

Medications that need refrigeration can only last for a short time if stored at room temperature.

To prevent medication poisonings:

1. Call your doctor to develop a plan for your refrigerated medications and electric-powered medical devices.
2. Keep a current list of medications, supplements, and/or vitamin names and dosages.
3. Clearly label all medications in water-resistant bags or containers.
4. Lock up medicines and store them up, away, and out of reach of children.
5. Use a flashlight to ensure you are taking the correct medication and dosage.

While cleaning debris inside or outside your home:

• Do not mix cleaning products and chemicals.
• Use gloves, protective eyewear, and masks when using chemicals.
• Open windows and doors to keep your inside area well ventilated.
• Follow label directions when using all chemicals.
• People with weakened immune systems should avoid cleanup, especially if mold is present.

Animals and/or insects may be hidden under debris:

• Look before you reach.
• If you’ve been bitten or stung by a snake, spider, or other creature, call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.