Lake Charles Police Chief Shawn Caldwell says that in Lake Charles 4 people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning while using a generator.
Caldwell says that generator safety is important and asks that residents keep generators away from covered areas of homes.
"Don't let a generator cost you your life," Caldwell said.
The generator was inside an attached garage and the door was partially open. The levels of carbon monoxide caused the deaths of four inside the home. Previously this story said that five had died, and that is what Caldwell says in the video. However, a relative contacted KATC and said one person who was in the home did survive and is fighting for their life in an Alexandria hospital.
The Sheriff's Office and Fire Department help a press conference Friday afternoon.
Watch more below:
The Sheriff's Office gave a complete update as to where crews and first responders are in the parish as recovery from Hurricane Laura continues.
Parish officials say that Laura is being called the strongest hurricane to make landfall in the state in 150 years and officials are saying the damage is devastating.
Road conditions are dangerous throughout the parish. Many roads are impassable.
Residents who wish to return to Calcasieu Parish will not be stopped from doing so, with the understanding that no services are available, including water, power, gasoline, groceries and hospitals. Any citizens wishing to return are strongly encouraged to secure their homes then return to evacuation. Citizens who stay must be self-sufficient.
Residents who remain in the parish must adhere to the 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew. Essential employees should have their work IDs with them at all times. Traffic signals are not working. When driving, treat every intersection as a four-way stop.
Contractors and the National Guard started debris clearance today with the “push phase” – pushing debris to the side of the road. The next phase will be removal.
Communications in the parish are spotty. Landline and cell phone system problems exist parish wide. Many agencies are experiencing radio problems.
Entergy and Beauregard Electric officials say damage is extensive residents should expect to be out of electricity for weeks. Use the Entergy app for details.
Call United Way’s 211 to connect with resources for help.
Medical services are extremely limited.
Communications parish-wide are spotty. Cell phone systems are limited. Agencies are having radio problems but are functioning.
Officials are asking residents to be practical with cell phone use. Text whenever possible and use short phone calls when necessary.
Be cautious and aware of scams. The Louisiana Attorney General’s website has details at https://www.ag.state.la.us/
Local and parish officials have no word on state or federal relief – the city and parish have completed all requests and paperwork and are awaiting approval
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