Majority Of Hurricane Laura Deaths Linked To Improper Use Of Portable Generators

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Hurricane Laura left scattered debris and damaged homes in Lake Charles, La. last week. The state has reported 15 deaths associated with the storm, with more than half of those attributed to improper use of portable generators.

David J. Phillip/AP

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David J. Phillip/AP

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Carbon Monoxide Poisonings Spike After Big Storms. Portable Generators Are A Culprit

In the meantime, the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal announced that search and rescue teams are making it a part of their mission to ensure people are using generators safely.

For example, it said responders helped an elderly couple in Vernon Parish refuel their generator and move it from their front porch to the back of their home, as the wind was blowing exhaust towards the windows and doors.

Officials also warned not to refuel generators while they are running and federal agencies stress the importance of keeping carbon monoxide detectors on hand, particularly after natural disasters when portable generators get the most use.

And some health experts are calling for broader reform, like stronger industry regulation and better safety features on portable generators, to help prevent potentially-fatal user error in the first place.

In fact, some generator models now include a sensor that triggers an automatic shutoff if carbon monoxide builds up too quickly, while others emit less of the gas in the first place.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, stomach pain, chest pain and confusion. Health officials urge anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to carbon monoxide to get to fresh air immediately and seek medical help.