New Madrid County Health Department shares power outage safety tips

NEW MADRID COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI)- As power outages can occur at any time, New Madrid County Health Department is urging residents to take precautions to ensure safety.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a significant risk, with Missouri recording 38 deaths in 2023 and 33 provisional deaths in 2024.

To heat safely:

– Never use gas stoves, ovens, kerosene heaters or charcoal barbecue grills to heat your home.
– Use alternative heating sources like generators, fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters, but operate them properly.

Generator Safety:

– Always operate generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors or vents.

Ventilation is Key:

– Ensure heating devices are properly vented.
– Keep space heaters at least three feet away from other objects.
– Never run a car or truck inside an attached garage, even with the door open.

Test Safety Detectors:

– Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working correctly.

Food Safety During Outages:

– A half-full freezer can maintain safe temperatures for 24 hours, while a full freezer can last 48 hours if doors remain shut.
– A refrigerator can keep food cold for up to four hours without power.