With Hurricane Idalia preparing to make landfall on the northwestern “big bend” part of Florida in the next 24 hours, we should take a moment to focus on generator safety.
Some of the biggest tragedies following hurricanes that have hit us in recent years, could have been avoided with just a little bit of extra preparation and education involving the safe operation of generators.
While these machines can be a blessing after losing power, if not used properly they could be deadly (story HERE).
This is because generator users will often run the units inside of the house, releasing amounts of odorless carbon monoxide that can, and have killed occupants. According to the article in the link, 85 people die from generator carbon monoxide poisoning every year.
You should be running the generators at least 20 feet from your home.
Make sure your carbon monoxide alarms are working.
Make sure the exhaust is pointing away from your house.
And only use your generator to power essential equipment.
You can read more HERE.
Hurricane Idalia is coming. Stay safe!