What Are the Signs of Carbon Monoxide Risk After Storm Damage?

After storm damage, inspect fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, water heaters, and generators. Look for visible soot, rust, or water stains on flue pipes and vents, as blockages can force carbon monoxide indoors. A yellow or flickering burner flame instead of a steady blue one is another strong indicator. Any of these signs mean the appliance may not be venting properly and poses a serious risk.

Storms can damage chimneys, exhaust vents, and air intake pipes. High winds or falling debris can cause cracks or disconnections. Check the exterior of your home for vent pipes that are bent, broken, or covered by leaves or siding. If you see damage, do not use any connected appliances. These systems are designed to expel gases safely, and a breach can allow carbon monoxide to seep into living spaces.

Storms often lead to power outages, prompting the unsafe use of generators and other devices. The greatest risk comes from operating gasoline-powered generators indoors, in garages, or near open windows and vents. Exhaust contains high levels of carbon monoxide, which can quickly infiltrate a home. Even a garage door left partially open does not provide sufficient ventilation to prevent dangerous buildup.

Other common mistakes include using charcoal grills, propane heaters, or camp stoves inside your home or basement. Never use a gas oven to heat your living space. Also, avoid running a vehicle in an attached garage, even with the door open. Wind from the storm can blow exhaust back into the home. Always operate these items outdoors and far from any air intakes.

• Portable generators used in garages or too close to the home.
• Gas ovens or ranges used for heating a room.
• Blocked or damaged furnace or boiler exhaust flues.
• Charcoal grills or camp stoves operated indoors.
• Back-drafting from water heaters due to negative air pressure.
• Running a car in an attached garage to charge devices.

Prevention starts with proper maintenance before storm season. Have a qualified professional inspect your furnace, boiler, water heater, and chimney annually. Install battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test the alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed. Remember, smoke alarms do not detect carbon monoxide; you need separate, dedicated units for this invisible gas.

Create a safe power outage plan. Know where to place a portable generator: at least twenty feet from your home, with the exhaust pointing away from doors and windows. Keep extra fuel stored safely outside. Educate everyone in your household about the risks and symptoms. Consider your local climate and typical storm patterns when planning for safe heating and cooling alternatives during an outage.