By Shane Tenorio Healy
For Variety
HAGÅTÑA (The Guam Daily Post) — A man and a woman were found dead at a Tamuning residence with a generator running inside the home.
On Saturday, a concerned individual called 911 regarding a generator running inside the sealed home, which prompted a response from Guam Police Department and Guam Fire Department units.
According to GFD spokesperson Nick Garrido, units responded at around 4 p.m. on Saturday and found two individuals “to be unresponsive.”
Norman Analista, GPD public information officer, said the individuals were an elderly man and woman who were two “decedents known to police” but their identities were withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Analista and Garrido both confirmed there was an odor of carbon monoxide in the residence, which was ventilated by GFD hazmat units.
A day after the authorities responded, Joint Information Center Release No. 5, issued on Sunday, included a GFD advisory for using generators.
The following tips were provided:
• Keep generators outdoors only — at least 20 feet away from homes, doors, and windows. Never operate inside garages, even if doors are open
• Watch for carbon monoxide — this gas is odorless and deadly. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or weak, get fresh air immediately and call 911
• Allow generators to cool before refueling — never add fuel while the unit is running or hot
• Store fuel safely — use approved containers and keep away from heat sources or open flames
• Use proper extension cords — heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords free of damage
• Do not overload the generator — follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent overheating and fire hazards
• Keep dry and elevated — protect generators from rain and standing water to avoid electrical shock
• Install battery-operated CO alarms in your home if available
• Turn off and let cool before shutting down for the day
“As to whether (carbon monoxide) was a factor in their deaths, that will be determined by the chief medical examiner,” shared Analista, who added that no more information could be released as of Monday afternoon.
