Why Generator CO Is So Dangerous
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced whenever any fuel — petrol, propane, diesel — burns incompletely. Generators produce concentrated CO from their exhausts. The danger is unique: CO has no colour, no smell, and no taste. You cannot detect it without a sensor.
How CO Kills
CO binds to haemoglobin 200× more readily than oxygen, starving your body of oxygen at the cellular level. Symptoms of mild exposure: headache, dizziness, nausea — all easily mistaken for flu. At high concentrations, unconsciousness occurs before you can react. Death follows within minutes.
Where People Go Wrong
- Running a generator in a garage with the door open (CO still builds to dangerous levels)
- Camping with a generator in or next to the tent
- Running a generator in a covered porch
- Placing a generator near an open window, not realising CO enters the house
The Only Safe Setup
Generator exhaust must be directed away from all buildings, tents and occupied spaces — minimum 6 metres. Position so prevailing wind blows exhaust away from people. Never assume "the door is open" is safe. Never assume "outdoors" automatically means safe.
CO Sensor Shutdown Technology
Many modern generators include a built-in CO sensor that automatically shuts the engine when CO builds to dangerous levels nearby. This is a genuine lifesaving feature. URBEXIA's current generator range includes CO Shield technology on selected models — worth every penny of the premium.
Install CO Detectors in Your Home
Even correct outdoor placement doesn't fully eliminate indoor CO risk. Install battery-powered CO detectors on every floor, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly. Replace batteries annually.
FAQ
Can I run a generator in the rain if I set it up outdoors?
Rain itself isn't a CO risk — but water and electricity are. Use a generator canopy that protects from above while allowing ventilation. Never run in standing water or direct downpour without protection.
How far is "far enough" for generator placement?
Current guidance: minimum 6 metres from any opening (windows, doors, vents) with the exhaust directed away from the building. More distance is always better.
