Generators and outdoor cooking appliances can be a great help during power outages. 

However, diesel or petrol generators, and outdoor heating or cooking appliances that use gas, oil, kerosene or wood, all produce dangerous gases including carbon monoxide.

You cannot see, taste or smell carbon monoxide, but carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.

Tasmanians are urged to use generators and appliances safely during power outages and to know the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include: 

• High carbon monoxide levels can cause loss of consciousness, seizures and death.
• Lower levels can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath and confusion.

Never use generators, outdoor barbecues, or portable charcoal grills, gas or heat-bead stoves indoors or near open windows or doors. 

Use them outdoors and away from open windows and doors of your own home and your neighbours’ homes. 

For more information about carbon monoxide poisoning, visit www.health.tas.gov.au/news/health-alerts/indoor-gas-poisoning-warning  

For more information about health and safety during severe weather events, visit www.health.tas.gov.au/news/blog-posts/health-and-safety-during-severe-weather-events