Knoxville, TN – The Tennessee Fire Marshal’s Office hopes to help recreational vehicle owners and renters stay safe this summer by warning people about potential carbon monoxide dangers that can occur in and around tents and RVs.
Carbon monoxide leaks “from anywhere can increase fast within small spaces,” said Kevin Walters, spokesman for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.
Walters said ways to stay safe from carbon monoxide include never using barbecue grills inside an RV, ensuring plenty of ventilation, never using fuel-powered lanterns inside RVs or tents, and making sure there is a working carbon-monoxide alarm inside any home, tent and RV.
Portable generators should be used outdoors only in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home, according to state recommendations.
Deaths from carbon monoxide became a major statewide concern after five people died of carbon monoxide poisoning while camping in Clarksville, Tenn., four years ago. The campers had no batteries in their carbon-monoxide detector, which otherwise could have saved their lives, Walters said.
Rented RVs are now required by Tennessee law to have a functioning carbon monoxide detector before being leased for use. RV rental companies are held responsible if they fail to document and test the detectors in their vehicles, Walters said.
Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include nausea, headaches and drowsiness. Anyone who suspects carbon-monoxide poisoning should call E-911, as high carbon-monoxide levels are fatal and can lead to death in minutes.