Winter Storm Safety: Protect Your Family from Common Hazards

Winter storms can bring freezing temperatures, power outages and dangerous conditions inside and outside the home. Taking a few simple precautions can help protect your family from poisoning risks during severe winter weather.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. During winter storms, the risk increases when people use alternative heating sources or generators.

Follow these important safety steps:

• Install a carbon monoxide detector with battery backup on every floor of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Never use a gas range, oven or charcoal grill to heat your home.
• Never run a vehicle inside a garage, even if the garage door is open.
• Never operate a generator inside a garage or enclosed space, even with windows or doors open.
• Only use fuel-burning space heaters in well-ventilated areas.

Know the Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical attention or call the Kentucky Poison Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

For more information about carbon monoxide safety, visit:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Safe Kids Worldwide

Food Safety During Power Outages

Power outages during winter storms can cause food to spoil quickly. Follow these guidelines to keep your food safe.

If the Power Goes Out

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
• If power returns within four hours, food in the refrigerator generally should still be safe.
• A full freezer can maintain freezing temperatures for up to 48 hours if unopened.
• A half-full freezer can maintain freezing temperatures for about 24 hours if unopened.

Once Power Is Restored

• Check the temperature inside your refrigerator and freezer.
• If the temperature reached 45 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, throw away:
  • Meat, poultry and fish
  • Dairy and egg products
  • Soft cheeses
  • Cooked beans, rice, potatoes or pasta
  • Potato salad, pudding or other perishable foods

Before restocking, allow your refrigerator to cool down to below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

When in doubt, throw it out.

Antifreeze and De-icer Safety

Antifreeze is commonly used in vehicles during cold weather. It is highly poisonous and has a sweet taste that can attract children and pets.

• Even a small amount can be harmful if swallowed.
• Always keep antifreeze and similar chemicals in their original containers.
• Store them sealed, labeled, and out of reach of children and pets.

Driveway and Sidewalk Salt

Salt used to melt ice on driveways and sidewalks can be dangerous if swallowed.

• It may harm children or pets if ingested.
• Store winter salt in a sealed, clearly marked container.
• Keep it up high and out of reach, just like other household poisons.

When to Call the Poison Center

If you think someone has been exposed to a poisonous substance, call 1-800-222-1222.

Poison specialists are available 24/7 to provide free, confidential help.

Quick action can make all the difference in an emergency.