Carbon Monoxide Tips As Winter Heating Season Ramps Up

The state of Michigan is reminding residents of the dangers of carbon monoxide and to take preventative measures against carbon monoxide poisoning and check CO detectors and fuel-burning appliances.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas found where carbon-based fuels like gasoline, propane, charcoal, wood and others are burned. The gas can build up to deadly levels within minutes in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Health officials say CO poisoning symptoms are similar to the flu, with fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness and confusion, which can eventually lead to coma and death. Residents are urged to place CO detectors in their home and to have routine checks on items like furnaces, water heaters, generators, grills, dryers, space heaters, fireplaces, chimneys and gas stoves.

If you suspect carbon monoxide in your home or a CO detector sounds an alert, go outside immediately and call 911. Stay away from the enclosed space, even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms, until the fire department tells you it is safe to return. Tips to avoid CO poisoning include replacing your detectors every five years and test them monthly. Never run generators within 20 feet from any building like a house, barn or garage and never inside. The same goes for fuel burning devices like gas or propane heaters, or charcoal, gas or wood grill.

These and other tips can be found online at michigan.gov/mitracking.