July 28, 2022 Hurricane Prep series: LDH encourages the public to take extra precautions when using generators to avoid carbon monoxide poisoningDeaths from carbon monoxide exposure often spike after hurricanes and storms

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Generator Safety TipsWith hurricane season underway, the Louisiana Department of Health reminds the public about how to safely use a generator to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in the event of a power outage. 
 
During 2021, CO poisoning killed 81 Louisiana residents and sent hundreds more to the hospital. Six of these deaths occurred during Hurricane Ida. Deaths from carbon monoxide exposure often spike after hurricanes and storms due to improper use of portable generators.
 
Known as the silent killer, CO is an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas produced when fuel is burned that can easily build up to deadly levels. CO symptoms are often described as “flu-like” and can appear as headaches, nausea, dizziness, weakness, chest pain and confusion. Breathing in too much CO can make you pass out or kill you. People who are sleeping or drunk can die from CO poisoning before they have symptoms.
 
The Office of the State Fire Marshal recommends the following safety tips for portable generators:  
 
In addition, here are some safety tips for standby generators:
 
If you think you or someone else has been exposed to carbon monoxide, move the person into fresh air and call your doctor or healthcare provider. If someone has been electrocuted, call 911 for emergency care instructions.
 
For more information, click here.

Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein

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