Carbon monoxide (CO) is a serious safety concern, especially during the colder months when homes rely more on fuel-burning equipment. CO is colorless, odorless and tasteless, which makes it difficult to detect without proper alarms. Each year, CO exposure kills more than 400 people in the United States and sends thousands to emergency rooms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that portable generators alone account for about 92 of those deaths.

CO exposure can cause permanent heart and brain damage and in severe cases it can be fatal. Symptoms include headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision and loss of consciousness. Because CO can build up quickly, many people do not realize what is happening before symptoms worsen.

CO forms anytime appliances or engines burn fuel such as gasoline, natural gas, propane, kerosene, oil, charcoal or wood. These appliances are generally safe with proper ventilation, but CO can accumulate in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces in minutes.

Your safety is always a priority. CO poisoning is preventable, and a few simple steps can help protect you and your family:

• Install battery-powered CO detectors on every level of your home and test them monthly.
• If a CO alarm sounds or if anyone shows symptoms, call 9-1-1 and move everyone outside to fresh air.
• Have your heating system, fireplace, water heater and all fuel-burning appliances inspected each year by a qualified technician.
• Never use grills, portable stoves or generators indoors or in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home.
• Follow ventilation requirements when using gas or kerosene space heaters and read all appliance instructions.

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