Weather
Mid-South Winter 2026-27: Check Your Home for This Hidden Threat
Memphis, TN – As families across the Mid South prepare for winter 2026 27, an invisible household danger could become especially serious during freezing temperatures, ice storms and power outages: car
By Elliot Vaughn · 2026-10-27T00:55:25.189Z
Memphis, TN – As families across the Mid South prepare for winter 2026 27, an invisible household danger could become especially serious during freezing temperatures, ice storms and power outages: carbon monoxide poisoning.
According to NOAA's Weather Prediction Center, carbon monoxide is a major winter safety concern when households improperly use portable generators, fuel burning heaters or other equipment that releases dangerous exhaust.
Why Carbon Monoxide Is Called the Silent Killer
Carbon monoxide CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced when fuels such as gasoline, natural gas, propane, charcoal and wood burn incompletely.
Because the gas cannot be seen or smelled, dangerous concentrations can accumulate indoors without warning.
Early symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, weakness and confusion. Severe poisoning can cause unconsciousness or death.
People who are sleeping may not recognize the symptoms before becoming seriously ill.
Five Critical Steps Before Winter 2026 27
1. Install and test CO detectors. Place working carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas. Follow manufacturer instructions and replace expired units.
2. Inspect heating equipment. Have qualified professionals inspect gas furnaces, fireplaces, boilers and other fuel burning appliances before colder weather arrives.
3. Keep generators outdoors. The CDC recommends operating portable generators at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents, with exhaust directed away from the home. Never use one inside a garage, even with the door open.
4. Check exterior exhaust vents. Snow, ice and debris can block furnace and appliance vents, potentially allowing dangerous gases to accumulate indoors.
5. Never use cooking equipment for heat. Gas ovens, charcoal grills and camping stoves are unsafe substitutes for residential heating systems.
What to Do if a Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sounds
Immediately evacuate everyone outdoors into fresh air and call 911.
Do not search for the source or reenter the building until emergency responders confirm it is safe.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should receive urgent medical evaluation.
Why Mid South Residents Should Prepare Now
Across Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and neighboring communities, freezing rain and ice storms can damage power lines and leave households without electricity.
When outages occur, residents may turn to portable generators and alternative heating sources, increasing the importance of proper ventilation and safe equipment operation.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable, and preparing before the first significant winter weather event could save lives.