Why Is Carbon Monoxide a Risk After Natural Disasters?

After a storm or flood, the electricity often fails. Many homeowners turn to portable generators for power. These devices burn fuel, like gasoline or propane, to create electricity. The exhaust from this process contains carbon monoxide, which is deadly in enclosed spaces.

Running a generator too close to your home, even in a garage with the door open, is unsafe. The gas can seep through vents, windows, or cracks, filling living areas without any warning signs. This is a common issue in areas that experience severe storms or flooding.

Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer for good reason. It has no smell, color, or taste, so you cannot detect it with your senses. It binds to your blood's hemoglobin much more easily than oxygen does.

This process prevents your blood from carrying oxygen to vital organs like your heart and brain. Early symptoms feel like the flu: headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. In high concentrations, it can cause unconsciousness and death very quickly, often while people are asleep.

• It is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas.
• It is produced whenever fuel like gas, wood, propane, or charcoal burns.
• It can build up rapidly in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces.
• It prevents your blood from carrying oxygen to your body's tissues.
• Initial symptoms are easy to mistake for food poisoning or fatigue.
• Everyone, including pets, is at risk from exposure.

If you or a family member experience sudden dizziness, headache, vomiting, or confusion, get to fresh air immediately. Do not ignore these signs, thinking they are just stress or tiredness from the disaster. Move everyone outside, even if you are unsure of the cause.

Once in fresh air, call for emergency medical help. Inform the responders that you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning. If someone is unconscious or not breathing, begin CPR if you are trained. Always see a doctor for evaluation after any suspected exposure, as effects can be delayed.