Seminole County officials have responded to over a dozen incidents of residents misusing generators since last week, including a house fire and a woman being exposed to carbon monoxide.
According to the Seminole County Fire Department, since Hurricane Ian passed through the area, emergency personnel have responded to at least 13 incidents across the county.
In one incident on Sunday, October 2, a woman from Geneva had to be transported to the hospital for exposure to carbon monoxide as a result of misuse of a generator.
On Saturday, October 1, Sanford Fire Department and Seminole County Fire Department crews responded to a residential fire that started because of the improper use of a generator with an extension cord.
Authorities say that 30% of the home was damaged by fire and smoke and water damage permeated throughout the entire home.
Anyone using a generator is advised to operate in a well-ventilated area, at least 20 feet away from a home. Generators should not be placed in enclosed spaces, like garages, living rooms, or other areas inside of a home or business.