MELVINDALE (WWJ) A 16-year-old boy in Melvindale died while running a generator in his basement, according to multiple news outlets.
FOX 2 reports he was found dead in the basement of a home on Wood at Clarence on Saturday, July 4. Authorities found a generator nearby.
According to the news outlet, an autopsy will be performed to determine his cause of death, but authorities believe it was due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
This comes in the wake of storms knocking out power to some 400,000 homes and businesses across Southeastern Michigan. As of 6 p.m. Sunday, July 5, DTE reports more than 122,000 customers remain in the dark.
The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) says to always keep generators outside, and at least 20 feet from your home. They say to never operate a generator in an enclosed space.
They urge that you have CO alarms installed outside each bedroom and on every floor of your home.
Carbon monoxide—an invisible killer—is odorless, colorless and tasteless. It can cause death in five minutes, according to the ESFI.
According to the CDC, common symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. Those who are sleeping, drunk, or under the influence of substances can die of it before ever experiencing symptoms.
The CDC says an estimated 400 Americans die of CO poisoning (not linked to fires) per year.
