Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention

Avoiding exposure to CO is the key to preventing carbon monoxide poisoning. Because the gas has no odor or color, you will not know if it is present. The following suggestions can reduce your risk of exposure:

• Have an expert check your fireplace chimney every year. Debris can block vents, making a build-up of carbon monoxide.
• Before the start of the heating season, have a professional check that your gas and kerosene appliances are working properly.
• Make sure all gas and combustion appliances are vented to the outdoors through pipes with no holes.
• Do not use your gas stove or oven for heating your house.
• Do not use a barbecue grill, camp stove, or unvented kerosene heater inside your house or tent.
• Do not use generators or other gasoline-powered engines indoors.
• Only buy and use equipment that carries the seal of the American Gas Association or the Underwriters' Laboratory.
• Do not rely exclusively on a carbon monoxide detector. Use one only as backup, in addition to preventive measures. Follow manufacturer's directions for installation and maintenance.
• Ask a mechanic to check your car's exhaust system every year.
• Do not run the car in the garage, especially with the door closed. Start the car and take it outside.
• Do not leave the door from the garage to the house open when the car engine is running.