Gas generator safety tips released

Gasoline-powered generators are a lifeline during weather emergencies when electricity is unavailable, but they also emit poisonous carbon monoxide. So researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology recently conducted simulations to determine ways to prevent potentially dangerous levels of carbon monoxide from seeping into structures. Andrew Persily, a research group leader at NIST who worked on the study, said in the past it was recommended generators are kept at least 7 feet from structures. However, NIST now recommends first responders ensure generators are kept at least 25 feet away from structures.

"These generators put out a lot of carbon monoxide when they are running properly and if it gets into the building and the people are exposed to it at these higher levels than they are subject to the well-known risks of carbon monoxide exposure," Persily said.

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