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Contact: Deborah Sturm Rausch (518) 473-9472 For Immediate Release: February 26, 2008

The New York State Consumer Protection Board Reminds Consumers About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Hazards from Portable Generators During Winter Storm

Numerous snow storms have already caused power outages in New York State this year, and with this week’s storms approaching, the NYS Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is reminding consumers to be careful about providing light, heat and energy in their homes should they lose power. The CPB advises consumers to exercise caution when burning candles, using generators, portable safety heaters and/or lanterns.

“In the midst of the cold and wintry weather, it’s easy to forget about the possible hazards, especially carbon monoxide poisoning associated with using portable generators,” said Mindy A. Bockstein, Chairperson and Executive Director of the CPB. “Portable generators are important and potentially life-saving tools, as long as consumers use them wisely and stay vigilant about safety.”

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA), “Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware it is in your home. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure.” The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that “at least 65 people died in 2006 from generator-related CO poisoning.”

The CPB is urging consumers to follow these simple tips when using a portable generator:
  • Assure that your equipment is well-maintained and that it follows current safety standards.
  • Provide for proper ventilation. Never use a portable generator inside or near a home, garage, shed or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open. Use portable generators outside only, far away from the home.
  • Follow the directions that come with the generator. Read the Owner’s Manual and all the supplied information carefully before using the generator.
  • Keep gas appliances properly adjusted. Maintain uniform gas line pressure as specified by the manufacturer. Check for updates on the product periodically and refresh your memory occasionally to assure you are operating it according to specifications.
  • Install CO2 alarms in your home. The alarms, which should be tested regularly, should have battery backups and be placed outside each bedroom.
  • Be aware of the symptoms of CO2 (headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue).
  • Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy.

The CPB, established in 1970 by the New York State Legislature, is the State's top consumer watchdog and think tank. The CPB's core mission is to protect New Yorkers by publicizing unscrupulous and questionable business practices and product recalls; conducting investigations and hearings; enforcing the “Do Not Call Law”; researching issues; developing legislation; creating consumer education programs and materials; responding to individual marketplace complaints by securing voluntary agreements; and, representing the interests of consumers before the Public Service Commission and other State and federal agencies.

To file a consumer complaint with the NYS Consumer Protection Board (CPB), call our toll-free hotline at 800-697-1220 or visit CPB’s website at www.nysconsumer.gov. In addition to the online complaint form, the website is home to important consumer safety information. To join the CPB’s Do Not Call Reminder list, send an e-mail to CPB's Do Not Call Reminder list