Carbon monoxide poisoning is very serious and it can be fatal. Every year over 400 people die, and thousands get treated at the hospital due to carbon monoxide. It is an odorless and colorless gas, so there is no warning when there’s a leak. The most common cause of carbon monoxide poisoning is improper ventilation. These cases occur more often during the winter when more people use generators, fireplaces, and space heaters.

You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning to try catching it early. They include headaches, sudden onset of confusion, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. You should watch out for these symptoms when using certain appliances that give off these fumes. Although this is a dangerous gas with no warning smell, there are things you can do to protect your home and keep your family safe.

Use Indoor Heaters Properly

Be sure you follow instructions and read all warning labels when using indoor heaters. Fuel-burning heaters should not be used in some settings. Use electric heaters when you can and save fuel-burning heaters in emergencies as a last resort.

If you have a generator for emergencies, make sure it stays outside and away from the house, as fumes can get in if it is too close. Although fuel-burning heaters keep you warm and toasty, they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning in your home. Some tips for using heaters properly are:

• Keep the heater on a flat surface
• Make sure there is plenty of space around the heater
• Never leave the heater unattended
• Do not leave the heater on while sleeping

Also, it is never a good idea to use your oven to heat your house or bring any type of outdoor heating system inside the home. You can safely warm your home by staying informed and following directions. Keep in mind that carbon monoxide poisoning can be prevented if you stay aware. Kerosene heaters emit low levels of carbon monoxide but even a small amount can affect your health.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is important with any gases or fumes, but especially important when using appliances that can produce carbon monoxide. You should make sure that grills are only used outdoors, never in a garage. You should also avoid warming up your car inside the garage. It can be tempting, especially if you have a push-button startup, but it’s not worth the risk even if you leave the garage door open.

You should also make the necessary updates to make sure indoor gas appliances have appropriate ventilation. You can use copper range hoods for your stove and check your clothes dryer to be sure fumes are properly vented outside the home.

Schedule Annual Inspections

One of the most essential ways to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning is scheduling annual inspections by a trained professional. If you have a wood-burning fireplace with a chimney, you should never skip an inspection. Inspectors can check for proper ventilation to ensure fumes are not filling your home.

Furnaces should also be inspected annually and the venting system should be cleaned as well. A good practice is to schedule the inspection before the winter season begins. If there is ever cause for concern, do not wait for the next inspection. You can always have someone come and inspect due to weird smells, fumes, or smoke.

Keep Carbon Monoxide Detectors in the Home

The simplest way to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning is to place detectors around the house and in the garage. Carbon monoxide detectors can be life-saving, so it’s an investment all homeowners should make. These detectors will alarm you once carbon monoxide reaches a certain level in your home. You should place them close to the bedrooms and be sure you have them inspected to make sure they are working properly.

Choose your carbon monoxide detectors carefully, making sure they are certified by the appropriate testing centers. Also, keep in mind that some models respond to carbon monoxide better than others so do your research to get a good one. If you use battery-operated detectors, the batteries will need to be replaced every year. You could even time it so that you change the batteries on the same day you have your vents inspected. Remember, the detectors will not benefit you if they’re not working.

Final Thoughts

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly, but it is also preventable. If you stay aware, stay informed, and follow directions, you can protect your household from carbon monoxide accidents. Be sure to use indoor heating systems properly and opt for electric heaters when possible. The most important way to combat carbon monoxide buildup is proper ventilation, especially if you use gas appliances.

Keep your stove, clothes dryer, and fireplace vented so fumes can easily escape. Schedule your annual inspections and install good carbon monoxide detectors in your house and garage. If you are proactive, you can avoid potentially fatal accidents from carbon monoxide and keep you and your family safe.