When Brooklyn’s Power Returns: The Hidden Carbon Monoxide Dangers That Could Turn Your Relief Into Tragedy
Power outages in Brooklyn are more than just an inconvenience—they can create life-threatening carbon monoxide hazards that persist even after electricity is restored. When the power went out for several days after Tropical Storm Irene in August of 2011, carbon monoxide poisoning was the cause of two deaths and four non-fatal poisonings in Maine. In each case, the carbon monoxide came from improper use of generators. Understanding the intersection between electrical emergencies and carbon monoxide safety is crucial for Brooklyn residents who want to protect their families during and after power disruptions.
The Carbon Monoxide Crisis During Power Restoration
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that cannot be seen or smelled and can kill a person in minutes. During electrical emergencies, Brooklyn residents often turn to alternative power sources and heating methods that can produce deadly CO levels. CO poisoning can happen any time of year, however, CO poisoning incidents tend to increase during storm-related power outages. Following a 2006 windstorm, 250 people were treated for CO poisoning in the Puget Sound area and eight died, all from either burning charcoal briquettes inside their homes or from improper use of gasoline-powered generators.
The danger doesn’t end when power returns. Malfunctioning electrical appliances, such as generators or heating systems, can produce carbon monoxide (CO) gas, which is odourless and colourless but highly toxic. Many Brooklyn residents make critical mistakes during the power restoration process that can lead to CO buildup in their homes.
Brooklyn’s Electrical Emergency Response Protocols
Brooklyn residents served by National Grid should be aware of proper emergency protocols. If you are a National Grid NYC customer (serving Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island), call 718-643-4050 (or dial 711 for New York State Relay Service). During power restoration, Disconnect or turn off all appliances that will go on automatically when service is restored. If several appliances start up at once, they may overload electrical circuits.
Professional electrical services become crucial during these emergencies. When facing complex electrical issues during power restoration, Brooklyn residents need qualified professionals who understand both electrical safety and carbon monoxide prevention protocols.
Generator Safety: The Primary CO Risk
Generators are the leading cause of carbon monoxide poisoning during power outages. A generator can be a lifesaver during an outage, but improper use can be deadly due to carbon monoxide poisoning or electrical accidents. Follow the 20-foot rule: Place the generator at least 20 feet away from your house, garage, and any other building to prevent deadly carbon monoxide fumes from seeping inside.
Never run a generator in a garage or shed, even with the door open. Turn the generator off and let it cool before refueling to prevent fires. Brooklyn residents must also avoid the dangerous practice of backfeeding. Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. This creates a deadly hazard called backfeeding, where electricity flows back to utility lines, endangering utility workers.
Alternative Heating Sources and CO Dangers
When power is out, Brooklyn residents often make fatal mistakes with heating sources. Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home. It increases your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Using an oven or stovetop can also increase the risk of fires, burns and could damage the appliance. Similarly, Do not use a charcoal grill or generator indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat–they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
Do not use unvented combustion appliances indoors such as barbecues, hibachis, or camp stoves. Combustion appliances produce toxic fumes, including carbon monoxide (CO). These seemingly harmless alternatives can quickly create lethal concentrations of CO in enclosed spaces.
Power Restoration Safety Steps
When electricity returns to Brooklyn neighborhoods, residents must follow specific protocols to prevent electrical surges and continued CO risks. Wait a few minutes for the electrical system to stabilize before turning anything on. This can prevent damage from initial power fluctuations. Wait at least 15 minutes after power is restored before turning on other appliances.
During this waiting period, ensure all CO-producing devices are properly ventilated and positioned. Yes, a plugged-in AC powered carbon monoxide detector will continue to work during a power failure if it has a functioning back-up battery. Yes, a hardwired CO detector can still function during a power outage if there is a working battery in the alarm. Check that your CO detectors are functioning properly as power is restored.
Professional Electrical Safety During Emergencies
Brooklyn residents facing electrical emergencies need professional expertise to navigate both electrical hazards and carbon monoxide risks. Electrified is an electrician based in Brooklyn. Known for quality workmanship and an excellent reputation, Electrified offers hands-on service throughout your project. When dealing with power restoration issues that could impact your family’s safety, consulting with an Emergency Electrician Brooklyn ensures that both electrical systems and CO prevention measures are properly addressed.
We’re known for honesty, integrity and providing professional and personal customer service. Our team of certified electricians have completed thorough training and are knowledgeable in safety regulations and local building codes. Professional electricians understand the complex relationship between electrical systems and carbon monoxide safety, ensuring comprehensive protection for Brooklyn families.
Essential CO Detection and Prevention
Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home. Place a carbon monoxide detector that is battery powered (or has battery back-up power) outside each sleeping area. Look for the UL mark with the “Single Station Carbon Monoxide Alarm” statement.
Recognize the warning signs of CO poisoning: Warning signs of CO poisoning are flu-like symptoms without fever (such as headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion). If you or anyone in the home suspect you are being poisoned by carbon monoxide: Leave the house immediately, and then call your local fire department or 911. Seek medical attention by contacting either the Northern New England Poison Center (800-222-1222) or your physician after you have left the area where you suspect the carbon monoxide is present.
Conclusion: Comprehensive Safety During Power Restoration
Brooklyn’s electrical emergencies require a dual focus on both electrical safety and carbon monoxide prevention. We’ve emphasized critical safety measures, like using generators correctly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and taking the right steps when power returns. Proactive maintenance of your home’s electrical system, including professionally installed surge protectors and generator connections, can turn a crisis into an inconvenience.
The period during and after power restoration presents unique hazards that Brooklyn residents must navigate carefully. By understanding proper generator placement, avoiding dangerous heating alternatives, following power restoration protocols, and maintaining functional CO detection systems, families can protect themselves from both electrical hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning. When in doubt, consulting with qualified electrical professionals ensures that your home’s power restoration process prioritizes safety above all else.
