How can carbon monoxide poisoning be prevented?

How can carbon monoxide poisoning be prevented?

If you suspect a CO buildup or you’re experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, exit the area immediately and seek fresh air. You can take preventive steps to help safeguard your health:

Do a yearly inspection: At the beginning of each heating season, hire a trained professional to inspect your fuel-burning appliances, including:

• Oil and gas furnaces.
• Gas water heaters.
• Gas ranges and ovens.
• Gas dryers.
• Gas or kerosene space heaters.
• Fireplaces.
• Wood stoves.
• Flues and chimneys (check for blockages and cracking).

Use appliances safely: In addition to a yearly inspection, make sure to:

• Choose appliances that vent fumes to the outside. They should be properly installed and maintained.
• Buy gas equipment that carries the seal of a national testing agency.
• Follow instructions for any fuel-burning appliance.
• Use the right fuel for any unvented gas or kerosene space heaters. Open the doors and crack a window in the rest of the home.
• Call an expert to inspect your gas refrigerator if you smell an odor.
• Never use a gas oven or clothes dryer as a heating source.
• Never sleep in a room with an unvented kerosene or gas space heater.

Install a carbon monoxide detector: Install a battery-operated (or battery backup) CO detector in your home. You should:

• Test the CO detector when you change the clocks twice a year to make sure it’s still in good working condition. Replace it every five years.
• Place the detector in a place where you will hear it if it alarms.