Man and his dog found dead after using generator during Missouri storm, officials say
.jpg "A Missouri man and his dog died from carbon monoxide poisoning after using a generator, according to the county coroner.")
A man and his dog died after using a generator during a storm in Missouri, officials said.
On March 16, Phelps County coroner Ernie Coverdell was out on a call when he responded to a home for reports of a man and dog found dead.
The 30-year-old man was using a generator during a storm, “a mistake that cost the victim and his beloved pet their lives,” Coverdell said in a Facebook post.
The man and dog died from carbon monoxide poisoning, KSDK reported.
The Doolittle Rural Fire Protection District shared a post on Facebook with some general guidelines for using generators and the risks they pose.
“Never operate a generator indoors or in an enclosed space:”
“Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, odorless gas produced by generators, and it can accumulate quickly in enclosed areas.”
“Run the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area:”
“Keep it at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent CO from entering the house.”
“Ensure proper ventilation:”
“Make sure the generator has 3-4 feet of clear space above and on all sides for adequate airflow.”
“Direct exhaust away from your home:”
“Ensure the exhaust pipe is pointed away from windows, doors, and vents.”
“Keep the generator dry:”
“Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, so keep the generator in a dry, covered area, whether in use or storage.”
About 85 people die each year in the U.S. from carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can kill within minutes, the commission said. It’s called the “invisible killer because it is odorless and colorless,” but there are some cases when milder symptoms, such as dizziness, nausea or weakness, can be experienced before loss of consciousness, according to the CPSC.
Phelps County is a roughly 220-mile drive southeast from Kansas City.
This story was originally published March 17, 2025 at 1:09 PM.
