Portable generators kill 755 since 1999

We know from experience as victims try to recover from disasters, they will take unnecessary risks with candles, cooking and generators, a U.S. official warns. "These risks often result in additional and tragic life safety consequences," Ernie Mitchell, the U.S. Fire Administrator, said in a statement. Mitchell said there have been at least 755 carbon monoxide deaths involving generators from 1999 when generators became widely available to consumers. The majority of the deaths occurred as a result of using a generator inside a home's living space, in the basement or in the garage, Mitchell said. Carbon monoxide -- an odorless and colorless gas produced when operating a stove, furnace or internal combustion engine in an enclosed space -- can kill humans and animals when encountered in higher concentrations. Mitchell advised those without power to: -- Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators outside and far away from windows, doors and vents. -- Read the owner's manual and follow the instructions. Any electrical cables should be suitable for outdoor use. -- Install carbon monoxide alarms immediately outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning. Check batteries. -- Never use charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors where they can produce lethal levels of carbon monoxide. -- Use flashlights instead of candles. If you must use candles, do not burn them on or near anything that can catch fire. Extinguish candles when leaving the room.