Health beat: Carbon monoxide poisoning prevention

When power outages occur after severe weather such as tornadoes or hurricanes, using alternative sources of power can cause carbon monoxide, or CO, to build up in a home and poison the people and animals inside.

Every year, at least 430 people in the U.S. die in from accidental CO poisoning. Change the batteries in CO detectors every six months. If you don't have a battery-powered or battery backup CO detector, buy one soon.

CO is found in fumes produced by portable generators, stoves, lanterns and gas ranges, or by burning charcoal and wood. CO from these sources can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned and can die from breathing CO.

How to recognize CO poisoning

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms.

CO poisoning prevention tips

* Never use a gas range or oven to heat a home.

* Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.

* Never run a generator, pressure washer or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open, unless the equipment is professionally installed and vented. Keep vents and flues free of debris, especially if winds are high. Flying debris can block ventilation lines.

* Never run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer or any gasoline-powered engine less than 20 feet from an open window, door or vent where exhaust can vent into an enclosed area.

* Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern or portable camping stove inside a home, tent or camper.

* If conditions are too hot or too cold, seek shelter with friends or at a community shelter.

* If CO poisoning is suspected, consult a health-care professional right away.

CO poisoning is entirely preventable. People can protect themselves and their families by acting wisely in case of a power outage and learning the symptoms of CO poisoning.

For more information, visit cdc.gov/co.

Health Beat is a weekly spotlight on a wide range of health issues. The information contained here was provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. View the CDC features online at cdc.gov/features.