HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — After Hurricane Beryl struck southeast Texas, warnings about carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning become especially relevant. Common advice includes avoiding the use of portable generators indoors, keeping them at a safe distance outside, and ensuring your CO detector batteries are fresh.
While there are fewer warnings about CO poisoning from professionally installed standby generators, Lt. Eddie Cruz from the Cy-Fair Fire Department told ABC13 that these can still pose a danger. Since Beryl hit, they have responded to multiple CO-related calls involving standby generators.
“We’re getting those calls not just in our area, but throughout Houston,” Cruz said.
The process of installing professional generators often draws complaints due to the extensive steps, permits, and involvement of energy providers required. However, this complexity is beneficial, according to electrician Steven Ashley of Abacus, as it ensures safe installation for you and your family.
“It’s a very extensive process,” Ashley explained. “It can take a month or month-and-a-half to install the generator properly.”
Ashley warned against installers promising quick setups, emphasizing the need for licensed and insured professionals. Proper installation also requires specific placement on your property to prevent CO from entering your home.
“They need to be placed according to manufacturer guidelines,” Ashley said. “For instance, they must be at least five feet away from windows and three feet from flammable sources like fences.”
When asked about the number of CO-related calls post-Beryl, the Cy-Fair Fire Department didn’t have exact numbers, but the Houston Fire Department reported 36 incidents on Wednesday. Montgomery County Hospital District EMS responded to 200 calls since the storm.
CO is tasteless and odorless, with poisoning symptoms including dizziness and confusion. Experts recommend installing CO detectors in your home to alert you when the gas is present.
