Keep fuel-burning equipment out of the house during an outage
Keep fuel-burning equipment outside, even when doors and windows are open. Plan the location before an outage so you do not have to improvise in the dark.
Know which equipment produces carbon monoxide
Fuel-burning generators, charcoal grills, and gas camp stoves can produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas. Opening a window or garage door does not make indoor use safe. Rechargeable power stations do not burn fuel, but they still need to be used within their electrical and battery safety limits.
Choose a safe generator location
Run a fuel-burning generator outdoors more than 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents. Never run it inside a home or garage. Choose the location in advance, direct exhaust away from the home, and follow the generator’s instructions and local requirements.
Check the carbon monoxide alarms
Put battery-operated or battery-backup carbon monoxide alarms near sleeping areas. Test them and replace batteries or alarms as directed. A dust mask or particulate respirator does not protect against carbon monoxide.
Keep outdoor cooking equipment outside
Never use gas camp stoves or charcoal grills inside the home. Use battery-powered lights for indoor lighting. Check the power requirements of appliances before connecting them to a battery, and use only suitable equipment for any permanent backup installation.
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