Safety Tips for When the Power Goes Out

National product safety and firefighter groups urge residents to be careful when the power goes out.

Some of their suggestions:

• Never use portable generators indoors or in garages, basements or sheds. Move them away from windows, doors and vents. Generators release exhaust that contains high levels of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if confined inside. "Carbon monoxide is an invisible killer," said U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "CO is odorless and colorless and it can kill you and your family in minutes.”
• Never use charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors. They too can produce lethal levels of carbon monoxide.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms outside bedrooms and on every level of the home. Don't forget to change the alarms’ batteries.
• Stay away from any downed wires, including cable TV feeds. They may be live with deadly voltage. 
• Do not handle or operate electrical appliances while standing in water. 
• Don't turn on electrical components, including circuit breakers, wiring in the walls and outlets that have been under water. They need to be replaced and tested by a qualified electrician.
• Replace natural gas or propane valves that have been under water.
• Smell and listen for leaky gas connections. If you believe there is a gas leak, immediately leave the house and leave the door(s) open. Never strike a match. Any size flame can spark an explosion. Before turning the gas back on, have the gas system checked by a professional.
• Be careful with candles. If possible, use flashlights. Never leave burning candles unattended. 

Information provided by CPSC and U.S. Fire Administration.