MANSFIELD, La. — One person is dead following a generator accident as the winter storm continues to grip DeSoto Parish, prompting officials to encourage use of emergency shelters and warming stations.
DeSoto Parish coroner Dr. Stacey Henderson said Alvin Mayweather, 87, died early Monday of carbon monoxide toxicity.
Mayweather was found in his home on Foxtrot, which just outside the Mansfield city limits. Authorities say Mayweather was using a generator that was not properly ventilated inside a garage.
Public safety officials warned that generators must never be used indoors or in enclosed spaces. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with alternative heating and power sources during the ongoing power outages.
Warming stations were opened across the parish over the weekend at every DeSoto fire station. Those are still available for anyone without heat or electricity.
Additionally, another one opened at noon at the Stonewall Community Center at 5208 Highway 3276 across from Salem Baptist Church.
Residents who require assistance with transportation to the shelter are urged to call the DeSoto Parish Sheriff's Office dispatch at (318) 872-3956.