40 square health plan

Winter Health Safety Check – Carbon Monoxide

Winter is upon us, which means heating our homes and more time in front of the fireplace. Rest a little easier during the winter months by ensuring your carbon monoxide detectors and appliances are running properly – and safely.

Carbon Monoxide Exposure Dos and Don’ts

  • Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a certified technician every year.
  • Install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home. Check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the detector sounds leave your home immediately and call 911.
  • Seek prompt medical help if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed or nauseated.
  • Don’t use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, garage or near a window.
  • Don’t run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
  • Don’t burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn’t vented.
  • Don’t heat your house with a gas oven.

Furnace and Fireplace Maintenance

Every winter when the temperature drops, your furnace can become a silent killer. Gas-and oil-burning furnaces produce carbon monoxide (CO). CO is an invisible, odorless, poison gas that kills hundreds every year and can sicken thousands. Follow these steps to keep your family safe this winter.

  • Install battery-operated or battery back-up CO detectors near every sleeping area in your home.
  • Have your furnace inspected every year.

Fireplaces

  • Have flues and chimneys inspected before each heating season for leakage and blockage by creosote or debris.
  • Open the fireplace damper before lighting the fire and keep it open until the ashes are cool.
  • Never close the damper if the ashes are still warm. An open damper may help prevent build-up of poisonous gases inside the home.
  • Store fireplace ashes in a fire-resistant container and cover it with a lid. Keep the container outdoors and away from combustibles.