Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a gas that you cannot see, taste or smell. Each year, an average of 480 people  in the United States die due to carbon monoxide poisoning and more than 20,000 visit the emergency room.

Here are some tips for preventing and identifying carbon monoxide in your home:

• Have a carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas, and keep at least 15 feet away from fuel burning appliances.
• Don't use a grill, generator or camping stove inside your home, garage or near a window
• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Don't leave a car, SUV or motorcycle engine running inside a garage, even if the doors are open
• Never use your gas stove top to heat your home
• On the outside of your home, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of snow and debris
• If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, immediately move outdoors.  Account for everyone in your home. DO NOT RESET THE ALARM.
  • Call 911.   Remain outside until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.