Carbon Monoxide Poisoning After a Disaster

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled. When power outages occur during natural disasters and other emergencies, the use of alternative sources of fuel or electricity for heating or cooking can cause CO to build up in a home, garage, or camper and to poison the people and animals inside.

Overview

• Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning After an Emergency

Clinical Guidance

• Clinical Guidance for Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning After a Disaster

Public Service Announcements

• Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning During a Power Outage
• Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning (Non-Disaster)

Educational Materials

• Generator Safety
  • Generator Safety Fact Sheet
  • Proper Use of Generators in the Home Flyer
  • Using a Generator Indoors Will Kill You in Minutes Door Hanger
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Proper Use of Pressure washers Engines Flyer
• Furnace Safety Fact Sheet

Additional Resources

• Carbon Monoxide Frequently Asked Questions
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Website
• Video: The Quiet Killer
• Prevention Guidelines
• References:
  • MMWR: Carbon Monoxide Poisonings After Two Major Hurricanes — Alabama and Texas, August–October 2005
  • MMWR: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning After Hurricane Katrina — Alabama, Louisiana, & Mississippi, August–September 2005
  • MMWR: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Hurricane-Associated Use of Portable Generators—Florida, 2004