What are the dangers of carbon monoxide and how to protect yourself from poisoning: tips for generator users

The Ministry of Health of Ukraine has warned Ukrainians against the careless use of generators to provide electricity and heat to their homes. People are urged to strictly follow safety rules to prevent accidents, including carbon monoxide poisoning.

It is recommended to buy only certified products and only at licensed outlets. This is reported by the press service of the agency (to view the photo, scroll to the end).

Experts note that the energy sector of Ukraine is suffering because of Russia's terrorist actions, so Ukrainians have begun preparing for winter in advance. They are equipping their homes with generators, stoves and other heating devices.

"But when buying such equipment, it is important to understand the risks of using it. Remember: carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled. Without special equipment, it is impossible to determine its concentration in the room. However, there are now household and affordable devices that can inform you of the danger," the Ministry of Health emphasized.

They emphasized that carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, or tasteless, but can be deadly to humans.

Carbon monoxide can be released during the operation of the following devices

- internal combustion engines of cars and ships;

- wood/gas/coal stoves

- portable gasoline generators;

- washing machines

- fireplaces

- charcoal grills;

- gas water heaters;

- kerosene heaters, etc.

The degree of carbon monoxide poisoning and symptoms depend on the volume, concentration in the air, and the time a person has been inhaling it.

Symptoms of exposure are:

- headache

- nausea

- rapid breathing;

- weakness, fatigue;

- dizziness;

- confusion.

To protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning:

- do not leave gas appliances unattended;

- use only appliances designed for this purpose to heat your home(do not use a gas stove to heat your apartment!);

- regularly check gas equipment, ventilation ducts and chimneys for proper operation;

- always open the stove or chimney flap in a stove-heated home.

As for generators, which have become popular among residents of private homes in the current realities, the Ministry of Health reminded that children should not use them.

In addition, the Ministry of Health calls for:

- buy only certified products and only at licensed points of sale. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully;

- generators and fuel should be used only outdoors at a distance of at least 6 meters from windows, doors and garages;

- keep the generator dry, protected from rain and flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to it may cause electric shock;

- allow the generator to cool down before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts may catch fire;

- install carbon monoxide detectors in the room.

"Be sure to buy a fire extinguisher and keep it nearby, in a visible and easily accessible place," the ministry added.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL, 136 thousand generators worth about $88 million were imported to Ukraine from November 1 to 21. Most often, gasoline generators with a capacity of no more than 7.5 kVA are imported into the country.

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