Weather
Atlantic Coast Winter 2026-27: Heating Mistakes That Can Turn Deadly
Raleigh, NC – As millions of households along the Atlantic Coast prepare for winter 2026 27, federal weather officials are highlighting an invisible household danger that can turn deadly during cold w
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-10-27T00:54:47.800Z
Raleigh, NC – As millions of households along the Atlantic Coast prepare for winter 2026 27, federal weather officials are highlighting an invisible household danger that can turn deadly during cold weather and power outages: carbon monoxide poisoning.
According to NOAA's Weather Prediction Center, carbon monoxide becomes a serious concern during winter storms, particularly when residents rely on portable generators, fuel burning heaters and other equipment that can release dangerous exhaust.
Why Carbon Monoxide Is Called the Silent Killer
Carbon monoxide CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, gasoline, oil, wood and charcoal burn incompletely.
Because people cannot see or smell it, dangerous levels can accumulate inside homes without warning.
Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, weakness and confusion. Severe poisoning can cause unconsciousness or death, including among people who are sleeping.
Five Critical Steps Before Winter 2026 27
1. Test carbon monoxide detectors. Install working alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas. Follow manufacturer instructions and replace expired units.
2. Inspect heating equipment. Have a qualified professional check fuel burning furnaces, boilers, fireplaces and ventilation systems before winter.
3. Keep generators outside. The CDC recommends placing portable generators at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents, with exhaust directed away from the home. Never operate one inside a garage.
4. Check exterior exhaust vents. Snow and ice can obstruct furnace and appliance vents, potentially allowing carbon monoxide to accumulate indoors.
5. Never use ovens or grills for heat. Gas ovens, charcoal grills and camping stoves can produce dangerous carbon monoxide levels when used improperly indoors.
What to Do if a Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sounds
Immediately move everyone outdoors into fresh air and call 911.
Do not search for the source or reenter the building until emergency responders determine it is safe.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should receive urgent medical attention.
Why Atlantic Coast Households Should Prepare
From New England through the Mid Atlantic and into the Southeast, winter weather conditions vary significantly, but carbon monoxide hazards can affect households anywhere fuel burning equipment is used.
Coastal storms can also produce power outages that increase reliance on portable generators.
NOAA additionally warns against running vehicles inside garages or allowing snow to obstruct exhaust pipes.
Preparing before an outage or heating emergency is one of the most effective ways to reduce these preventable risks.