Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels burn incompletely. In the home, heating equipment that burns fuel is a potential source of carbon monoxide…with November, December and January representing peak months for (non-fire) carbon monoxide incidents.
To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and other home heating hazards this winter, we recommend the following precautions:
- Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside.
- During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build-up.
- Have heating equipment and chimneys inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional.
- If you use a generator, make sure it’s used in a well-ventilated location outdoors away from windows, doors and vents.
- Install CO alarms in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards.
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If the CO alarm sounds, immediately move everyone in your home to a fresh-air location outdoors or by an open window or door and call for help. Stay there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.