Blacksburg, VA – As winter weather and power outages affect parts of Virginia this week, the National Weather Service is urging residents to follow strict generator safety rules, warning that improper use can become deadly within minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, portable generators produce carbon monoxide (CO) — a colorless, odorless gas that can kill quickly if it builds up indoors. Officials stress that generators should only be operated outside, well away from homes, garages, windows, doors, and vents.
The reminder was issued Wednesday morning as colder temperatures increase the likelihood of generator use across Southwest Virginia, surrounding counties, and nearby Appalachian communities, where outages are more common during winter systems.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths following storms and power failures. Even brief exposure can lead to dizziness, unconsciousness, or death, especially while occupants are sleeping.
The NWS strongly recommends that any household using a generator install a working, battery-powered carbon monoxide detector, preferably near sleeping areas. Officials warn that running generators inside garages — even with doors open — or near windows can allow deadly gas to seep into homes unnoticed.
Emergency managers say safety reminders are especially critical during overnight outages, when residents may attempt to heat or power homes using portable equipment.
Residents across Montgomery County, the New River Valley, and the Roanoke metro region are urged to review generator safety guidelines before outages occur and to check CO detector batteries regularly.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or confusion should leave the area immediately and call 911.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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