Safe use of portable generators and kerosene heaters - WVVA TV Bluefield Beckley WV News, Weather and Sports

Safe use of portable generators and kerosene heaters

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LEWISBURG, W. Va (WVVA)-- Many families are turning to alternative heating as power outages still plague communities.

While Appalachian Power works to restore the electricity in those areas, households turn to generators and kerosene heaters to stay warm.

But in some cases, these methods can backfire.

To keep safe, fire officials urge you to keep generators outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning from the exhaust they emit. Also, make sure you disconnect the main power to your home, or shut it off, before powering up the generator. This prevents electrical shock.

House fires can result from carelessness around kerosene heaters, officials also warn. They say you should always turn them off when you are not available to monitor them.

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