Health Officials Urge Safety During Power Outages

Saturday, January 20th 2007, 11:39 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- In the wake of recent storms that have left thousand without power, state health officials are urging Oklahomans to use extreme caution when using generators and other alternative power sources.

There have been several reports of illnesses resulting from carbon monoxide poisoning, including a family of seven who became ill in Tulsa from a carbon monoxide leak.

The colorless, odorless gas can build up in enclosed or even partially enclosed spaces and poison people or animals inside.

Health officials say devices like generators, grills, camp stoves or other gas, propane or charcoal-burning devices should never be used inside a home or even a garage.

They urge residents to keep such devices outside, far away from windows, doors and vents.

Every year more than 500 Americans die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.