Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Last month, we talked about the dangers and sources of carbon monoxide poisoning.  This month we will discuss strategies to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.  

As a reminder, carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that is produced from the incomplete burning of fuels that contain carbon, such as wood, charcoal gas, coal, natural gas and kerosene.  Carbon monoxide poisoning kills about 500 people a year, and sends another 20,000 people to the emergency room.  One of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning is some of its milder symptoms are similar to those of the common cold or flu.  So the danger is you may not realize until it is too late that you have this deadly condition.  

Here are some things you can do to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Most importantly, install a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home and near bedrooms.  Illinois law requires that a carbon monoxide detector be placed within 15 feet of every gas burning appliance and within 15 feet of every sleeping area.
  
• Have a professional inspect your heating system annually.
  
• Make sure your heating unit is vented properly to allow exhaust to escape properly.
  
• Open the flue when the fireplace is in use and do not close it until the fire is completely out.
  
• Have your chimney cleaned annually.
  
• Make sure your EPA-compliant wood burning stove burns only wood and that it is placed on an approved stove board.
  
• Do not use a gas generator indoors on in crawl spaces.
  
• Use fuel-fired space heaters in well ventilated areas, and make sure you are using proper fuel.
  
• Use your gas oven for cooking; not to heat your home.
  
• Do not barbecue inside (you would be surprised at how often this happens).
  
• Do not leave your car running in a garage.
  
• Do not run your snow blower (or lawn mower in summer) in the garage.
  
• Keep your windows slightly open when using gas appliances.
  
• Check for pilot lights that go out and gas burners that take on odd colors.