|
Safty tips on generator and chainsaw operation and a FEMA rumor dispelledOdorless Killer Stalks Missouri - Carbon MonoxideJEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Recent carbon monoxide poisoning deaths in Missouri following this January's severe ice storms bring home the need to beware the dangers of a silent killer, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). FEMA and SEMA warn Missourians to stay alert for the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when spending more time in vehicles or using unfamiliar fuel-burning heaters, generators or appliances in and around their homes. Opening doors and windows or operating fans will not guarantee your safety. The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is particularly high during the cold weather season. "Too often, when people have lost power after a disaster, they will use alternate sources of energy to cook and heat with," said Tom Hall, federal coordinating officer for the Missouri recovery. "This is an especially grave risk in Missouri as residents without power try to use generators to heat and power their homes and businesses." Carbon monoxide poisoning from the use of fuel-burning appliances kills more than 200 people each year and sends about 10,000 to hospital emergency rooms for treatment. Others die from carbon monoxide produced while burning charcoal inside a home, garage, vehicle or tent. Still others die from carbon monoxide produced by cars unintentionally left running in attached garages or gas-powered generators where the exhaust can accumulate in living spaces. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning any fossil fuel. The initial symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the flu and include dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and irregular breathing. High-level exposure to carbon monoxide can cause death. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends that consumers use gasoline-powered generators outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Furthermore, every living space should have at least one carbon monoxide detector that meets the requirements of the most recent Underwriters Laboratories Standard 2034 or the requirements of the International Approval Services 6-96 standard. Tips On Chain Saw SafetyJEFFERSON CITY, Mo. The chain saw is one of the most efficient and productive power tools used for debris clean up. If used improperly it can be dangerous. To avoid harm, follow these simple instructions: Survey the job at hand and plan your task. Keep both hands on the chainsaw handles. Keep your eye on the blade and what you are cutting. Cut only on the right side of your body. Always cut below your head .Cut with the lower edge of the saw blade whenever possible. Cutting with the tip of the saw is inviting injury. Watch out when cutting limbs and branches that are bent, they may snap back and hit you .Let the chainsaw do the work. Don't try to force the saw. Wear protective clothing; a hard hat, goggles, safety shoes, gloves and trim-fitting clothes .Don't wear yourself out. Stay alert. Use Caution When Using A GeneratorJEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The State of Missouri Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urge residents who may be using generators for power to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. As ice storm victims tackle the massive job of clearing up debris left by the recent storms many will turn to portable generators for power. Experts warn that gasoline powered generators should not be used indoors because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Authorities have reported several deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning any fuel. The initial symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu, and include dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and irregular breathing. Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can cause death. CO poisoning from the use of fuel-burning appliances kills several hundred people each year and sends thousands to hospital emergency rooms for treatment. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that individuals: 1- Use gasoline-powered generators outdoors and away from air intakes. 2- Use the appropriate size and type of power cords to carry the electrical load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires. 3- Never run cords under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or damage to a cord may go unnoticed. 4- Never connect generators to another power source such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or "back feed" can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.FEMA Dispels Rumor Regarding Disaster RecoveryJEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- A false rumor circulating in the hard-hit Bootheel and southern Missouri areas states the Federal Emergency Management Agency will reimburse anyone who has purchased a generator in recent weeks. FEMA does not reimburse generator purchases, except in extremely rare circumstances of documented medical or extraordinary needs. |
|
|
National Voice Gazette
www.nationalvoicesite.com
Remember the Troops
Support the Mission
