May 15th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

As severe weather and flooding continue to impact Western Maryland communities, the Office of the State Fire Marshal urges residents to take life-saving precautions when using gas-powered generators and pumps. While critical during power outages and water removal efforts, these devices pose a serious threat if not used properly: carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas that burns fuel in engines like those found in generators, pressure washers, and water pumps. When used in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces—including basements, garages, or near open windows… CO can quickly build to deadly levels.

Earlier today, a Barton resident was taken to a local hospital after he became ill with the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. It was later learned he was running a gas-powered pump inside his home. 
“Tragically, we see preventable deaths and illnesses every year because of improper generator use,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. “Carbon monoxide is an invisible killer. You won’t see or smell it, but it can kill in minutes.”
Safety Tips for Using Gas-Powered Equipment:
• Never use generators, gas-powered pumps, or other fuel-burning equipment indoors — including garages, basements, or crawl spaces. 
• Operate equipment at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents.
• Ensure proper ventilation around all gas-powered machinery. 
• Install battery-operated or battery-backup carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. 
• Test CO alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed. 
• Turn off the generator and let it cool before refueling to prevent fires and exposure to vapors. 

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and weakness. If you suspect CO poisoning, immediately move to fresh air and call 911.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal encourages all residents to prepare for emergencies by reviewing safety plans, educating family members, and using only properly maintained and operated equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
“Preparedness and awareness save lives,” added Mowbray. “By taking a few simple precautions, Marylanders can protect themselves and their families from this silent threat.”
• Operate generators outside of the home and outside of garages. Carbon monoxide gas produced by operating generators is poisonous and can quickly cause severe injury or death.

• Ensure the generator's placement does not allow carbon monoxide to enter the home through windows, doors, or other openings. 

• If you can hear thunder during the storm, you are within striking distance of lightning. Stay off corded phones, computers, and other electronic equipment that would place you in direct contact with electricity.
 
The State Fire Marshal offers one final tip that is just as important. “Ensure your home has working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.  These early notification devices are some of the most effective fire and life safety tools for preventing injury or death from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning”.