News briefing · Published
The CPSC's generator warning: carbon monoxide risks in outages
How can I avoid generator carbon monoxide during a power outage?
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says portable generators are one of the leading causes of carbon monoxide deaths after storms. Do not run a generator indoors, including in garages and sheds. Choose a model with a CO shut-off feature, and keep battery CO alarms on every sleeping floor.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warned in May 2026 that portable generators are one of the leading causes of carbon monoxide deaths after storms.
What happened
CPSC advises against running generators indoors, including in garages and sheds. It suggests buying models with a CO shut-off feature. It also points to units certified to the PGMA G300-2023 and UL 2201-2023 standards.
What it means for your home
Garages and sheds are not safe places to run a generator. Battery CO alarms on every sleeping floor give you an early warning if carbon monoxide gets into the house.
What to do this week
- Run a generator only outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents.
- Test your CO alarms, and put a battery CO alarm on every sleeping floor.
- When you shop for a generator, look for a CO shut-off feature and the PGMA G300-2023 or UL 2201-2023 certifications.
- Consider a battery power station for small loads. It produces no engine exhaust.
For the full safety checklist, read the carbon monoxide safety guide.
Sources
This briefing is general information, not medical, legal or electrical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.