Home Generator Safety: How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning

Living in Montgomery, TX, brings its own set of weather challenges — from powerful storms to unexpected outages. A home generator can be a lifesaver when the power goes out, keeping you comfortable and protecting your home. But owning one also comes with serious safety responsibilities. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is one of the biggest risks associated with generators, and preventing it should always be a top priority. Here are the essential safety tips every Montgomery homeowner should follow.

Use Generators Outdoors: Never operate a generator, grill, camp stove, or any gasoline-, propane-, natural gas–, or charcoal-burning device inside your home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed, or any partially enclosed space. Proper ventilation is critical — and indoor use is never safe.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep all fuel-powered devices well outside and away from doors, windows, and vents. Even a generator running on a covered patio or near an open window can allow carbon monoxide to drift inside.

Ventilation Isn’t Enough: Opening windows or running fans does not prevent CO buildup. Carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, making it extremely dangerous. It can quickly cause headaches, confusion, loss of consciousness, and even death.

Recognize Symptoms Early: If you feel dizzy, weak, nauseated, or unusually tired while a generator is running, move to fresh air immediately. Symptoms can escalate fast, so don’t ignore even mild discomfort.

Install CO Alarms: Place carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside all bedrooms. These devices provide early detection and can literally save lives.

Test Alarms Regularly: Check batteries frequently and replace alarms according to manufacturer recommendations. A non-working CO detector is as dangerous as not having one at all.

Respond Immediately to Alarms: If a CO alarm goes off, get everyone outside to fresh air right away. Call for emergency assistance and stay outside or near an open door or window until responders arrive.

Home Generator Safety is a must in the winter months in the Montgomery area. Play it smart and make sure you understand how to take care of your generator as well as your family.