Safety Tip - Carbon Monoxide

CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY TIPS

Don’t forget about other household dangers such as carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 1,500 people in the U.S. die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year, and 10,000-40,000 more seek medical attention from hospital emergency rooms. As the weather gets colder and heating appliances are used more frequently, it is important to protect yourself against carbon monoxide poisoning just as you do against fire. First Alert has provided these carbon monoxide safety tips.

• Never barbecue indoors. Charcoal is a particularly inefficient form of combustion that emits higher levels of CO and could be especially dangerous if operated in an enclosed space.
• If a gas-fired clothes dryer is used, check the exhaust hose behind the machine to be sure it is not kinked, which could prevent CO from properly exiting the residence. Also check the vent outside just to make sure lint and dust have not blocked the opening.
• One of the most common sources of carbon monoxide is a natural gas or oil-fired furnace. If the furnace is not maintained or operating properly, CO from the combustion of fossil fuel inside the furnace can leak into the home.
• Inspections from a qualified technician should be done at least annually on all heating and cooling appliances.
• Never leave a car running in an attached garage, even to warm up the engine. Cars produce more carbon monoxide than household sources and will cause CO levels inside the home to spread rapidly. Leaving the garage door open can provide better ventilation but may not make a difference as winds often blow light, gas-size particles back inside.
• Taking the proper precautions, such as installing a working carbon monoxide alarm, maintaining appliances and ensuring they are adequately vented, will help protect families wherever they live.