How to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning in western NC this winter

As cooler weather arrives in western NC, the NCDHHS urges safety when heating spaces to prevent carbon monoxide hazards post-Hurricane Helene.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has issued a safety advisory for residents of western North Carolina as colder weather sets in following Hurricane Helene.

The department warns that improperly used gas or wood-burning heat sources can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards, particularly if they have been damaged by the storm. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions when heating their homes or enclosed spaces.

Carbon monoxide: Safe practices

The government release underlines the importance of safe practices for using wood-burning stoves. It advises against burning materials like household trash and painted or treated wood due to the release of harmful chemicals. Instead, residents should use dry, seasoned wood.

Other safety tips include keeping flammable items away from stoves and closing wood-burning appliance doors when not in use to prevent the release of carbon monoxide.

In addition to stove safety, the advisory emphasizes the careful use of generators and other fuel-burning heat sources. Individuals are cautioned against using gasoline-powered engines in enclosed spaces and advised to keep these at least 20 feet away from doors and windows.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can quickly reach deadly levels indoors, posing a significant risk. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. It particularly affects vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women, and it can prove fatal.

People are urged to seek fresh air immediately and seek medical help if symptoms occur. For further safety guidance, residents are directed to contact the Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch of the NC Division of Public Health at 919-707-5900.

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This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The Cardinal & Pine staff.