How To Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: When Sheltering In Place During A Winter Storm

Winter storms often force families to shelter in place for long periods of time. Power outages, blocked roads, and dangerous travel conditions make staying indoors the safest option. Unfortunately, these same conditions also increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. Every winter, people are injured or killed because carbon monoxide builds up inside homes from unsafe heating and power practices.

Understanding how carbon monoxide poisoning happens and how to prevent it is essential for winter storm safety.

Quick Answer: How To Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Never use fuel-burning devices indoors unless they are specifically designed and vented for indoor use. Keep generators outside and far away from doors, windows, and vents. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.

What Is Carbon Monoxide And Why Is It Dangerous

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as gasoline, propane, natural gas, wood, charcoal, or kerosene do not burn completely.

When carbon monoxide is inhaled, it replaces oxygen in the bloodstream. This prevents vital organs like the brain and heart from receiving enough oxygen.

High levels can cause collapse, unconsciousness, and death within minutes. Because carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, people often do not realize they are being exposed.

Why Winter Storms Increase Carbon Monoxide Risk

Winter storms create conditions that make carbon monoxide buildup more likely.

Common factors include:

• power outages

• cold temperatures

• use of alternative heating sources

• homes sealed tightly to keep warmth inside

• blocked vents and chimneys

People often turn to generators, heaters, or improvised heat sources when electricity is unavailable, which increases risk if those devices are not used correctly.

Common Dangerous Mistakes During Winter Storms

Many carbon monoxide incidents occur because people are trying to stay warm or keep essential appliances running.

Never do the following:

• run a generator inside a home or garage

• place generators near windows, doors, or vents

• use grills or camp stoves indoors

• burn charcoal inside

• run a vehicle inside a closed or partially closed garage

• use propane heaters that are not rated for indoor use

Opening a window or door does not make these practices safe.

Safe Ways To Heat Your Home During Outages

If you lose power, rely only on heating sources designed for indoor use.

Safer options include:

• vented fireplaces

• properly installed wood stoves

• indoor-rated electric heaters powered by generators or battery systems

• warm clothing, blankets, and sleeping bags

Always follow manufacturer instructions.

Generator Safety And Placement

Portable generators are one of the leading causes of carbon monoxide poisoning after winter storms.

Safe generator practices:

• place generators at least 20 feet from buildings

• keep exhaust directed away from openings

• never operate generators indoors or in garages

• turn off and cool generators before refueling

Using generators correctly saves lives.

The Importance Of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors provide early warning when dangerous levels are present.

Best practices:

• install detectors on every level of your home

• place detectors near sleeping areas

• test detectors monthly

• replace batteries as needed

• replace old detectors according to manufacturer guidelines

Detectors are inexpensive and highly effective.

Symptoms Of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Early symptoms may include:

• headache

• dizziness

• nausea

• fatigue

• confusion

Severe exposure may cause:

• chest pain

• vomiting

• loss of consciousness

Symptoms can affect everyone in the home at the same time.

What To Do If A Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sounds

If a carbon monoxide alarm activates:

• move everyone outside immediately

• call emergency services

• do not re-enter the home until authorities say it is safe

Do not ignore or silence alarms.

How Carbon Monoxide Safety Fits Into Your Winter Storm Plan

Carbon monoxide safety is part of overall winter preparedness.

It works alongside:

• winter storm preparedness checklists

• generator safety planning

• power outage readiness

• frozen pipe prevention

Taking a layered approach reduces risk.

FAQs: Carbon Monoxide Safety

Can carbon monoxide leak even if I do not smell anything?

Yes. Carbon monoxide has no odor.

Are battery-powered detectors reliable?

Yes, when tested and maintained regularly.

How often should detectors be replaced?

Typically, every 5 to 10 years.

Final Takeaway: Invisible Does Not Mean Harmless

Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. Safe heating practices, proper generator placement, and working detectors dramatically reduce risk.

Preparing before a winter storm helps protect everyone in your home.