CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – On Sept. 18, 2011, Jim Wall, Tim Stone, Allison Bagwell-Wyatt, Jon and Katy Over died in their sleep in Clarksville, Tennessee when fumes from a generator seeped into their rented RV.

The RV’s carbon monoxide detector, which could have prevented the deaths, was found to have no batteries, according to a Clarksville Fire Rescue news release. As a result of this tragedy, rented RVs are now required by Tennessee law to have a functioning carbon monoxide detector before being leased for use. The bill also holds RV rental companies responsible if they fail to document and test the CO detectors in their leased vehicles. It is important to note that this law only applies to rentals. It is still imperative that personal RV owners stay diligent in testing and changing the batteries of the carbon monoxide detectors in their own campers.

Carbon monoxide (CO), often called “the silent killer,” is an invisible, odorless gas created when fuels (such as kerosene, gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include headache, nausea, and drowsiness.

Extremely high levels of poisoning can be fatal, causing death within minutes. Anyone who suspects they are suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning should immediately move to a fresh air location and call 911.

In recognition of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Day, the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office and country music artist Tracy Lawrence are sharing carbon monoxide safety messages to help save lives and reduce risks to Tennesseans, according to a state news release.

Lawrence is appearing in a new video created by the State Fire Marshal’s Office that highlights carbon monoxide safety.

“Never use a gas generator inside your home, garage, carport basement, crawlspace or outside near a window, door or vent,” said Lawrence. “A generator should only be used outdoors and at least 15 feet away from buildings. It is dangerous to use a gas or kerosene heater inside a home or other building.”

Clarksville Fire Rescue suggests:

  • Install and maintain CO alarms inside homes, campers, and RVs to provide early warning of carbon monoxide.
  • Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other shelter openings. Lit or smoldering barbecue grills should never be taken inside a home, tent, or RV.
  • Never use a fuel-powered lantern or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or camper/RV.
  • Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.