COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency is urging residents to prepare for potential power outages from this weekend’s winter storm and be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, tasteless, and odorless gas formed when fuel is burned, that can build up to deadly levels within minutes in enclosed spaces.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headaches, nausea, confusion, vomiting, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
Residents are urged to never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline or charcoal burning devices inside of homes, basements, garages or near a window.
These appliances give off carbon monoxide which can build up quickly in a home.
Do not use a cook top or oven to heat their home as these appliances are not designed for this purpose and may result in carbon monoxide poisonings.
Ensure your home has a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector, which are available at local home improvement and retail stores.
If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
If your power is out for an extended period of time, you should also:
Discard any potentially hazardous food (meat, dairy, eggs, cut melons, and cooked vegetables) that has been above 41º F for four hours or more, reached a temperature of 45º F or higher for any length of time, or has an unusual color, odor, or texture.
Wear layers of clothing to help keep in body heat.
Avoid power lines, objects in contact with power lines, and the use of electric tools and appliances to prevent electrical shock.
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