Staying Safe During Winter Weather
It looks like a winter storm is headed our way. Winter weather brings serious poisoning risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning.
Here are some steps you can take to avoid a storm-related poisoning:
Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by…
- only using generators outside, more than 20 feet away from your home, doors, and windows.
- never using a gas stove, camp stove, or charcoal grill inside your home for any reason. This includes the garage.
- making sure you have a carbon monoxide detector, with battery backup, near every sleeping area of your home.
- not running your car inside your garage.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” because it has no color and no distinct odor. Symptoms of CO poisoning can feel like the flu.
If you are having headaches, dizziness, nausea, weakness, or confusion, get to fresh air, and call NC Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or 911 right away.
Avoid food poisoning by…
- keeping freezer and refrigerator doors closed. A full freezer usually keeps food cold for about 48 hours. Refrigerators will keep food cold for about four hours.
- placing a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer to monitor temperatures. If the temperature is 40 degrees or higher, throw food out.
- having food on hand that does not need to be refrigerated.
Remember, when in doubt, throw it out.
If you think you have food poisoning, contact NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
In honor of National Poison Prevention Week, March 16-22, 2025, here are 5 ways you can celebrate:
- Know when to call NC Poison Control and when to call 911. A suspected poisoning doesn’t always mean an emergency. Watch and share this 30 second video about a common medication dosing scenario and how we can often help keep people at home.
- Get familiar with the look-a-likes in your home. Check out this resource highlighting everyday household products and their medication or cleaning product look-a-like.
- Know that poison control isn’t just a service for parents with young children. Learn the top substances adults contact the poison control center about here.
- Order a free poison prevention pack for you or someone you care about. Packs are available for a variety of ages and stages in life.
- Save the NC Poison Control phone number, 1-800-222-1222, as a contact in your phone. You’ll be ready when the unexpected happens.
