04/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/08/2024 03:43
Alachua County wants to remind residents that using a generator indoors can result in carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and even death.
In a short time, CO can build up in enclosed or even partially enclosed spaces, such as your home or garage.
Depending on the level of exposure, CO may cause fatigue, weakness, chest pains for those with heart disease, shortness of breath upon exertion, nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, lack of coordination, impaired vision, loss of consciousness and even death. The risk of illness or death increases with the level of CO in the air and the amount of time exposed.
CO is invisible and odorless, so you might not even realize you are at risk until it is too late.
Follow these precautions to help prevent CO poisoning:
If you have a poisoning emergency, call your nearest Florida Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911 immediately.
For additional information, please contact the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County at 352-334-7900, visit www.floridahealth.gov/Emergencyor www.AlachuaCountyReady.com.
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