State fire marshal warns against improper use of alternate heating sources during power outages

Nevada Daily Mail

As the new storm approaches, some people in southwest and south-central Missouri remain without power, prompting safety concerns. State Fire Marshal Randy Cole has learned Missourians are continuing to use improper heating sources. leading to more storm-related fatalities.

After days without power, health and welfare investigations are indicating Missourians are seeking alternate heating sources to stay warm while utility companies work to restore power after ice, sleet and snow pelted many counties in Missouri. Cole urges Missourians without power to seek shelter setup in the affected areas by volunteer organizations as opposed to using generators or other heating devices improperly.

All gasoline and diesel generators create carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that inhibits the body's ability to absorb oxygen, a condition that can cause serious health problems, and even death, within a matter of minutes. The first symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning usually include headache, lightheadedness, dizziness and unexplained sleepiness. Gas and charcoal grills, including camping stoves, also generate carbon monoxide. These should never be used indoors.

State Fire Marshal Cole stresses the importance of ensuring a home has working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and testing them monthly to ensure they're in working order. The advance warning these alarms provide can prevent tragedy by giving families enough time to get out of their house alive.

Tips for winter storm fire safety:

* Use battery operated lanterns or flashlights instead of candles and oil lamps during power outages.

* Keep generators outside of occupied buildings and never run a generator in an attached garage.

* Never use fossil fueled (propane, kerosene or heating oil) space heaters in an enclosed room, these heaters require a well ventilated area to prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide.

* Keep chimneys, fireplaces and flues clean and never use a liquid fuel or cardboard to start a fire in a woodstove or fireplace.

* Do not use extension cords to power electric space heaters or use any electric heater that has the cord frayed, repaired or improperly replaced.

* Vehicle exhaust fumes contain large quantities of carbon monoxide. Never run a vehicle in a garage. If you are stuck in a vehicle, make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow, ice or debris and only run the engine for short periods to maintain warmth in the vehicle.

For more information about planning for a winter emergency, you should contact your local emergency officials. The Missouri Department of Health offers the Ready-in-3 emergency plan guide. It may be accessed at their Web site, www.dhss.mo.gov.

For information concerning winter fire safety, contact your local fire department or the Missouri State Fire Marshal's Office at (573) 751-2930.