RALEIGH – With the drop in temperatures and power outages remaining a concern in across Western North Carolina, residents are urged not to use outdoor grills, generators and heating devices indoors as the results can be deadly.
“Devices intended for outdoor use can give off potentially deadly carbon monoxide gas if used indoors where the invisible, odorless fumes can build up and lead to poisoning,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “We don’t want to see the tragedy of this hurricane compounded, so we are urging residents to not take outdoor devices such as portable heaters, barbecue grills and generators indoors for a heat source or use these appliances in garages. It is not worth the risk.”
Safety tips to keep in mind include:
- Always use charcoal or gas grills outdoors.
- Never run a gas-powered generator indoors or close to windows, doors or vent openings.
- Do not run a vehicle or other fueled engines or motors indoors, even with garage doors open.
- Do not store, place or use a propane cylinder indoors or an enclosed area such a basement, garage, shed or tent.
Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can include dizziness, light headedness, nausea, headaches and shortness of breath. High level of exposure to carbon monoxide can be fatal.
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