Austin EMS warns to watch for carbon monoxide poisoning amid power outages

Skye Seipp, Austin American-Statesman
·1 min read

Austin-Travis County EMS said they responded to four calls within a couple of hours Thursday morning related to carbon monoxide poisoning that resulted in 12 people, including five children. Three of the calls resulted from people using generators in a garage.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can become more likely during cold weather events if the power goes out, as some people use stoves, ovens and portable grills to heat their homes. While others use generators in areas that are not well-ventilated.

Austin live weather updates: Power outages continue Thursday; road conditions improving

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

Here are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning to look out for:

  • Headaches

  • Nausea/vomiting

  • Dizziness

  • Weakness

  • Confusion and loss of consciousness

Power outage updates:Austin Energy reports 150K+ still without power; restoration expected by 6 p.m. Friday

What to do if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning

If you're worried you may have been exposed, follow these tips from ATCEMS:

  • Get away from the source

  • Go outside

  • Ventilate your home

  • Call 911 if you have symptoms

If you do lose power, bundle up with extra layers of clothes and blankets. And if you have a fireplace, start a fire; just make sure its vent is open and the chimney is clean.

And again, don't use a stove, oven or portable grill to heat your home, and if you have a generator, keep it out of the garage or house and make sure it's in a well-ventilated area before using it.

More:Affected by the Austin Texas power outages? Here's what you can do to stay safe

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Austin EMS warns of carbon monoxide poisoning due to power outages