Windham Fire Making Generator Safety Top Priority

While Windham has seen uncharacteristically beautiful weather to start December, the fire department is still thinking about the next New England blizzard.

Acting in response to the extensive power outages suffered during the October snow storm, WFD is executing a generator safety awareness campaign that will include safety cards and door tags.

The informational items, which will be offered in partnership with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), will explain the do's and don'ts of generator use and the dangers of carbon monoxide. Deputy Chief William Martineau said that it's a reaction to a recurring lack of safety knowledge during power outages.

"We're finding out that people don't know enough about carbon monoxide issues," said Martineau. He explained that carbon monoxide is "the silent killer," and people who may be running their generators right at their garage doors are putting themselves in danger.

"We want to make sure that people understand that – the dangers of carbon monoxide," said Martineau.

The door tags that the department is preparing to distribute to residents offer facts and tips from the Center for Disease Control. For example, it notes to install a battery-operated CO alarm near bedrooms. 

There are also safety tips on where to place the generator and what symptoms are associated with CO poisoning. A separate card will display a diagram of where to put a generator and explains how a generator's exhaust can harm a family.

"I think the last power outage there were a lot of residents that were out for three to five days or more," said Martineau. "Around the clock those generators are running."

Martineau said that it's a matter of preparing residents for the winter months ahead.

"It's a way to help people out to recognize one of the hazards that's out there in the community," said Martineau. The CPSC offers a specific page devoted to carbon monoxide information.