ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — As a winter storm approaches western North Carolina, with the risk of power outages, many people are considering alternative ways to stay warm.
Local emergency response officials are warning residents to exercise caution and safety when using alternative heat sources due to potential carbon monoxide exposure.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause sudden sickness, even death, if large amounts are inhaled.
Local officials ask that you follow these guidelines to lower the exposure:
- Use a carbon monoxide detector
- Clear up to three feet around the heat source
- Never heat your home with a gas oven
- Never use a generator inside your home or garage
“Any time we bring an outside heat source, you can’t connect it to your main furnace or ducted system; that item needs fresh air. When we don’t, it uses all the air in the room. And then you may start experiencing nausea, headaches that feel like a band around your head. Any of that starts happening, please get out and get to fresh air and seek medical attention,” said Asheville Fire Department’s fire and life safety educator, Jeremy Brooks…