As a winter storm moves closer to the Houston area, fire officials are urging residents to use generators safely during potential power outages, warning that improper use can be deadly.
Officials say many Houstonians may be relying on generators for the first time, increasing the risk of accidents, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep generators at a safe distance
According to the Cy-Fair Fire Department, generators should always be placed at least 20 feet away from any structure where people are living or sleeping.
Fire officials stress that generators should never be used inside a home or in a garage — even if the garage door is open.
“Even if it’s a detached garage, if there’s a leak or carbon monoxide buildup, it can still make its way into the living structure,” said Lt. Eddie Cruz with the Houston Fire Department.
Avoid common electrical mistakes
Fire officials say they often see dangerous mistakes during cold weather events when residents attempt to power their homes.
Generators should only be used after the power goes out, and extension cords must match the generator’s wattage. Overloading a generator can lead to fires or electrical damage.
One of the most dangerous practices is plugging a generator directly into a wall outlet in an attempt to power a home.
“People will take an extension cord, plug it into their generator, and then plug it into a wall socket hoping to power their home,” Cruz said. “That is a big no for us.”
Carbon monoxide: The silent killer
Fire officials emphasize that no generator should be used without a working carbon monoxide detector.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas often referred to as the “silent killer.” Exposure can cause symptoms similar to the flu, including dizziness, headaches, and nausea.
“If you experience those symptoms, get outside immediately and call 911,” Cruz said.
Safety tips before you go to sleep
Fire officials say overnight use of generators can be especially dangerous.
Before going to sleep, residents are advised to:
- Place generators outside and far away from homes
- Never run generators while sleeping
- Ensure carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working
As the winter storm approaches, officials say preparation and awareness can help prevent tragedy during power outages.