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In the past few years Connecticut has seen widespread power outages lasting for days.
From hurricanes, snowstorms and ice storms.
Many people were poisoned from carbon monoxide gas.
Before the next big storm.
Be Prepared.
Be Aware of carbon monoxide.
And how YOU can prevent you and your family from getting poisoned.
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can be fatal. Each year, hundreds of Connecticut residents are taken to the emergency department with carbon monoxide poisoning.
There are a few simple steps you can take to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon Monoxide you can't see it; you can't smell it.
BUT you CAN be aware of it; you CAN prevent getting poisoned from it.
BEFORE the power goes out: Get your furnace cleaned every year.
Install a carbon monoxide detector
Put in fresh batteries every six months and replace your carbon monoxide detector every five to 10 years according to the manufacturer's directions.
If you buy a generator, make sure you follow the instructions on installing it and operating it. If you have a generator, buy gas and a power cord at least 20 feet long.
Suddenly the power goes out.....
AFTER you lose power.. make sure.
You DO NOT put your generator inside of your home, enclosed porch or garage.
DO NOT use charcoal grills, propane or kerosene heaters inside the house.
DO NOT run the car in the garage to get warm or to charge cell phones.
DO NOT use the oven for heat.
And remember these DOs.
DO place the generator as far from your home as possible. Be sure it's at least 20 feet from your home and your neighbor's home.
DO listen for the carbon monoxide detector alarm. If the alarm goes off, DO get out of the house right away and dial 911 from your cell phone or a neighbor's home.
DO go to an emergency shelter to use charging stations and to get warm.
Follow these DOs and DON'Ts to stay safe from carbon monoxide poisoning during and after the next storm.
For more information on the dangers of carbon monoxide go to:www.ct.gov/dph/co.