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Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that is produced when fuel is burned. Appliances, including gas heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, space heaters and water heaters are all sources of carbon monoxide. Another source of carbon monoxide is automobile exhaust. Leaving a car running is a garage with the door closed can be a deadly mistake.

Exposure to paint removers with methylene chloride is risky because methylene chloride can turn to carbon monoxide in the body. We are concerned about your safety, so we offer the following tips for avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning.

Install carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors if they are not already installed in your home. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on each floor of the home near the bedrooms. Make sure the detectors meet Underwriters Laboratory (UL) standards.

Never crank a vehicle in a closed garage and never leave a vehicle running in a garage even with the garage door open. Some newer cars with push button ignition systems run so quietly that a driver may exit the car and fail to turn it off. If you have this type of vehicle, be sure to double-check to make sure you have turned the car off before closing the garage door.

Never use a generator inside of a home or in a confined space. Generators are designed to run outside where there is plenty of fresh air.

Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use. Never cook on a charcoal or gas grill in the house and when cooking outside, keep grills away from open doors and windows.

When using a space heater, make sure the area where the heater is located is well-ventilated.

Always use the proper fuel for your heater. For example if you stove is designed to burn wood, do not burn coal in the unit.

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Have chimneys and heating systems inspected before you need to use them. In most climates, late summer or early fall would be a good time to have your heating system checked. This includes gas and oil furnaces.

When burning a fireplace, keep the flue open and wait until the fire is completely out before closing the damper.

We hope these tips for  avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning are useful. For help with keeping your heating and cooling systems safe and in good working condition, give us a call today.

FAQ Section: Carbon Monoxide Safety

1. What are the common sources of carbon monoxide in homes?

Carbon monoxide (CO) can be produced by several household appliances and vehicles. Common sources include gas heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, space heaters, and water heaters. Even everyday items like gas grills and generators can emit CO if used improperly indoors. Additionally, running a vehicle in a closed garage, even with the door open, can lead to dangerous CO buildup.

2. How can I protect my family from carbon monoxide poisoning?

Protecting your family from carbon monoxide poisoning starts with installing CO detectors on every floor of your home, particularly near bedrooms. These detectors are your first line of defense, alerting you to dangerous CO levels. Regular maintenance of heating systems, chimneys, and vents is crucial, as is proper ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances. Never use generators or grills indoors, and always ensure your vehicle is turned off before closing the garage.

3. What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be subtle, often mistaken for flu-like symptoms. Early signs include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. If CO levels continue to rise, symptoms can escalate to confusion, loss of consciousness, and even death. If you or anyone in your home experiences these symptoms, especially multiple people simultaneously, evacuate immediately and seek medical attention.

4. Why is carbon monoxide called the “silent killer”?

Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, making it virtually undetectable without a proper CO detector. This dangerous gas can accumulate indoors without you even realizing it, leading to poisoning that can be fatal if not caught in time. The only reliable way to detect CO is with a detector designed specifically for this purpose.

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5. Can a car left running in an open garage cause carbon monoxide poisoning?

Yes, even leaving a car running in an open garage can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. CO can still accumulate in the garage and seep into your home, especially if the garage is attached. Modern vehicles with quieter engines can exacerbate the risk, as it’s easier to forget that the car is still running. Always turn off your vehicle completely before closing the garage door.

6. Is it safe to use a generator indoors during a power outage?

Using a generator indoors is extremely dangerous and can lead to fatal carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators are designed for outdoor use only, where their exhaust fumes can disperse safely. Even in a garage or a well-ventilated area, the risk is too high. Always operate generators outside, far away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent CO from entering your home.

7. How often should I check and replace my carbon monoxide detector?

Carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly to ensure they are functioning correctly. The lifespan of a CO detector is typically 5 to 7 years, after which it should be replaced. Some detectors will alert you when they are nearing the end of their lifespan, but it’s wise to keep track of the purchase date. Always replace batteries at least once a year or whenever the detector indicates low battery power.

8. Can burning wood in a fireplace cause carbon monoxide buildup?

Yes, burning wood in a fireplace can produce carbon monoxide. To prevent CO buildup, always ensure the flue is fully open before starting a fire and keep it open until the fire is completely out. Regular chimney maintenance is also crucial, as blockages can trap CO indoors. If your home relies on a fireplace for heating, consider installing a CO detector nearby for added safety.

9. What is the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning with space heaters?

Space heaters can pose a significant risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if not used properly. Fuel-burning space heaters, in particular, require proper ventilation to prevent CO accumulation. Always use the recommended fuel type and never leave a space heater running unattended or while sleeping. Electric space heaters do not produce CO, but they can still be a fire hazard if misused.

10. Why is it important to have chimneys and heating systems inspected regularly?

Regular inspections of chimneys and heating systems are essential to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Over time, chimneys can become blocked with debris or soot, restricting airflow and causing CO to back up into your home. Similarly, heating systems, especially those that burn fuel, need to be maintained to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Schedule inspections annually, preferably before the heating season begins.