Carbon monoxide deaths rise as temperatures fall

Hundreds of people die from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning each year and it remains a serious threat no matter the season, but activities that typically increase with the onset of winter weather conditions pose an even greater risk. Each year, tragic events throughout the country serve as sad reminders that carbon monoxide poisoning can result in death when it reaches unsafe levels.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) urges the public to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and to take measures to ensure safe practices.

· Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms inside your home to provide early warning of accumulating CO. CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each separate · Never use your oven or grill sleeping area. If bedrooms are spaced apart, each area will need a CO alarm.

· Test CO alarms at least once a month and replace alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

· CO alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and CO alarms.

· Have fuel-burning heating equipment (fireplaces, furnaces, water heaters, wood and coal stoves, space or portable heaters) and chimneys inspected by a professional every year.

· When using a fireplace, open the flue for adequate ventilation. to heat your home.

· When buying an existing home, have a qualified technician evaluate the integrity of the heating and cooking systems, as well as the sealed spaces between the garage and house.

· If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle, generator, or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not covered with snow.

· During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build-up.