Carbon Monoxide Prevention

• Have your fuel-burning appliances, including oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every heating season. Make sure the flues and chimneys are connected, in good condition and free of any blockages.



• Choose appliances that are vented to the outside whenever possible and have them properly installed. Maintain them according to the manufacturers’ instructions.



• Follow the instructions that accompany any fuel-burning device, paying close attention to the cautions that are mentioned. Use the proper fuel and ensure enough air ventilation by cracking a door or window.



• DO NOT idle the car in a garage even if the door to the outside is open! Fumes in a garage and in the living area of your home can build very quickly.



• DO NOT use a gas oven to heat your home!



• DO NOT ever use a charcoal grill indoors!



• DO NOT sleep in a room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater!



• DO NOT use any gasoline-powered engines in enclosed spaces!



• DO NOT ignore CO poisoning symptoms, especially if more than one person experiences them!

In the event that you suspect CO poisoning. . .

• Get Fresh Air Immediately. Open windows and doors, turn off combustion appliances and leave the house.



• Go to the Emergency Room and advise the physician you suspect CO poisoning. A blood test can often confirm whether or not CO poisoning has occurred.



• Be prepared to answer questions like the following for the doctor:



• Do your symptoms occur only in the house? Do they disappear or decrease when you leave and reappear when you return?



• Is anyone else in the home complaining of similar symptoms?
  
  
• Are you using any fuel-burning appliances in the home?



• Are you sure your appliances are working properly? Have they recently been inspected?

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