About Carbon Monoxide

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• Fuel-burning machinery used indoors such as generators without proper ventilation.
• Car exhaust fumes entering the house from the garage.
• Combustion equipment such as furnaces or water heaters when not working properly or that have a blocked exhaust system.

What can you do?

Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. The following tips and pointers can help keep your family safe:

• Never run your car in a closed garage.
• Make sure fuel burning appliances are installed by a professional and that they are working properly.
• Choose vented appliances when possible.
• Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home.
• Have your heating system and chimneys inspected each year.
• During winter months check frequently that vents, flues and chimneys are not blocked by snow or ice.
• Replace dirty air filters on heating and cooling systems.
• Never run a generator, power washer, or any diesel or gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage or other enclosed structure.
• Keep your home well ventilated - Install ventilation for indoor combustion appliances and consider installing air exchanges or air conditioning if your home is tightly sealed.
• Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, or camping lantern or portable stove inside your home, tent or camper.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms.
• Talk to your doctor or local health department if you suspect that you, or a family member, might be suffering from carbon monoxide fumes.
• Call your local building or code enforcement agency if you have concerns about the combustion appliances in your home.