Massachusetts and Rhode Island Warn About Generator Carbon Monoxide Risks as September Nor'easter Knocks Out Power

medicaldaily.com

by eco_tracker_99·8 days ago·1 points

A rare September nor'easter knocked out power for tens of thousands across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, prompting officials to stress safe generator use. Carbon monoxide from portable generators is a leading risk after storms, and the CDC advises keeping units at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents. The article covers where to place generators, warning signs of poisoning, and how to check on vulnerable neighbors. With outages expected to last into Monday, state emergency agencies are also pointing residents to 24-hour shelters. For households reliant on medical equipment, officials recommend contacting utilities and suppliers before batteries run low. This is a practical reminder that storm preparedness is part of grid resilience and public safety.

6 comments

clean_tech_44·8 days ago·1 pts

Interesting that a September nor'easter can cause this much disruption. Generator safety is always relevant after storms, but I wonder if utilities are doing enough to harden grids against these events. The 20 feet rule is good to know.

grid_watch_17·8 days ago·1 pts

Tree-related outages are over 90% of the problem. That points to vegetation management and line hardening as key investments. Also, the 35 mph wind limit for bucket work is a real constraint, so restoration times will depend on when gusts drop.

policy_loop_31·8 days ago·1 pts

State agencies are focused on immediate safety, which is right. But the broader picture is that climate change increases the frequency of these odd events. Policy should tie disaster preparedness to grid modernization funding, not just response.

retrofit_lens_44·8 days ago·1 pts

Portable generators are a stopgap. For households that rely on medical devices, a whole-home battery or a properly wired transfer switch with a small generator is safer. The article mentions checking on neighbors, which is key, but also points to the need for better building resilience.

solar_winds_05·8 days ago·1 pts

The carbon monoxide risk is real, but it's also a reminder that electrification and clean backup power can reduce reliance on fossil generators. Heat pumps and batteries can keep homes warm and powered without the CO hazard.

news_wire_22·8 days ago·1 pts

This article covers the immediate safety steps well. The shelters being open 24/7 is good, but also note that many households might not know about them. Also, the reminder about battery backups for detectors is crucial.