How Do You Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Every year, winter storms leave carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning deaths in their path. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and U.S. Fire Administration are sounding the CO alarm. • Never use portable generators inside homes or garages, even if doors and windows are open. Use generators outside only, far away from the home. • Never bring a charcoal grill into the house for heating or cooking. Do not barbecue in the garage. • Never use a gas range or oven for heating. • Open the fireplace damper before lighting a fire and keep it open until the ashes are cool. An open damper may help prevent build-up of poisonous gases inside the home. • Have home heating systems (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced annually by a trained service technician. • Install battery-operated CO alarms or CO alarms with battery backup in your home outside separate sleeping areas. Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and
