Hurricane Kathy

Preventing Poisonings During Hurricane Season

Hurricane season brings more than just the threat of strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding—it also increases the risk of poisonings in your home and community. In the aftermath of a storm, exposure to toxic substances like carbon monoxide, contaminated water, and household chemicals becomes more likely. Being prepared and knowing how to prevent poisonings can protect you and your loved ones during these challenging times.

Whether you're stocking up on supplies, weathering a storm, or dealing with its aftermath, Poison Centers are here to help. By following simple safety tips, you can reduce the risk of poisoning and stay safe throughout hurricane season.

Call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 for free, confidential advice, day or night.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is called the “invisible killer.” It’s a gas that has no smell, color, or taste and doesn’t irritate.

Common sources of CO include:

Portable, gas-powered generators
Vehicles
Grills/Stoves (charcoal, wood, or gas)
Lawn equipment (gas-powered lawn mowers, leaf blowers, etc.)
Power tools (saws, compressors, etc.)

Common symptoms of CO poisoning include:

Fatigue, weakness
Headache
Nausea and/or vomiting
Dizziness
Confusion or bizarre behavior
Loss of consciousness

If you think someone has carbon monoxide poisoning, get them into fresh air immediately and call your local Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Tips for Safe Generator Use

Never use a generator inside your home, garage, carport, or any enclosed area.
Generators should be placed at least 20+ feet away from windows, doors, and A/C intake vents.
Place carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and on every floor of your home.

Medication Safety

Before a Storm:

Keep an up-to-datelist of all medications, supplements, and/or vitamin names and dosages.
Store your medications in water-resistant bags and out of reach of children.
Plan how to keep your refrigerated medications cool if the power goes out.

During a Power Outage

Use a flashlight to make sure you are taking the right medication and dose.
Store all medications in child-resistant and pet-safe containers.

TIP: Call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 for quick, expert advice regarding your medications.

Keeping Food & Water Safe

During a power outage, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food cold. Food will usually stay safe for 4 hours in a cold refrigerator
24 hours in a half-full freezer
48 hours in a full freezer

TIP: Throw away food that may have gone bad.

Stock up on clean, fresh water before a storm. You should have one (1) gallon of water per person per day (for at least 3 days) available for drinking and sanitation. Follow these tips for storing water:

Do not store in bottles/jugs that were used for non-edible products such as chemical jug.
Store water in a shady, cool place.

Cleaning After a Hurricane

When cleaning up after a hurricane, keep these tips in mind:
Do not mix cleaning products and/chemicals.
Wear gloves, protective eyewear, and masks when using chemicals.
Open windows and doors to keep your inside area well ventilated.
Follow the directions on all chemical labels.
People with weakened immune systems should not be involved in clean up, especially if there is mold.

Bites & Stings

Animals and/or insects may be hidden under debris. If you get bitten or stung by a snake, spider, or any other animal or insect, call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate, expert advice.

Wear long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes or boots when clearing debris.
Wear insect repellent or permethrin-treated clothing.
If you see a snake, give it space and do not attempt to touch, capture, or kill it.