Health Ministry reports carbon monoxide poisoning cases from generator use
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton says his ministry has been advised of at least three cases of carbon monoxide poisoning related to the use of generators.
In light of the situation, the ministry, in a release on Thursday, sought to remind the public of the proper use of generators and the necessary precautionary measures to take to avoid being harmed by fuses from same.
In the statement, the ministry advised that generators are not for indoor use and should not be operated in enclosed areas. It also outlined that the equipment should be kept in a dry area as water exposure could create an electrical hazard.
Generators should also be kept at a safe distance from structures because of engine heat.
It was also highlighted that appliances such as toasters and hair dryers consume a large amount of current and persons should avoid using these appliances when running the generator.
Generators are usually used as a backup source of electricity during a storm.