Carbon Monoxide Safety: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly. If you have gas appliances, CO safety is essential.

Understanding Carbon Monoxide

What Creates CO - Incomplete combustion of fuel - Gas furnaces, water heaters, stoves - Vehicles running in attached garages - Generators and grills used indoors

Why It Is Dangerous - Cannot be detected without a monitor - Symptoms mimic flu - Can be fatal at high concentrations - Affects the whole household

Symptoms of CO Exposure

Early Symptoms - Headache - Dizziness - Nausea - Fatigue - Confusion

Serious Exposure - Loss of consciousness - Brain damage - Death

If multiple family members have flu-like symptoms that improve when leaving the house, suspect CO.

CO Detector Requirements

Where to Install - On every level of the home - Near sleeping areas - Near gas appliances

Maintenance - Test monthly - Replace batteries annually - Replace detectors every 5-7 years

Preventing CO Problems

Professional Maintenance - Annual furnace inspection - Check for heat exchanger cracks - Verify proper combustion - Inspect venting

Venting - Ensure vents are clear and undamaged - Check for blockages seasonally - Never cover or block vents

Safe Practices - Never run vehicles in attached garage - Never use generators indoors - Never use outdoor grills or heaters inside - Never use oven for heating

If Your CO Detector Alarms

1. Take it seriously 2. Get everyone out of the house 3. Call 911 from outside 4. Do not re-enter until cleared 5. Have gas company or fire department inspect

Signs of CO Problems

- Yellow or flickering pilot light (should be blue)

• Soot or scorch marks near furnace
• No upward draft in chimney
• Excessive moisture on walls/windows
• Rust on vent pipes

Any of these signs warrant immediate professional inspection.