Carbon Monoxide Detector with battery backup

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas that can cause illness and even death. This poisonous gas is absorbed through the lungs into the bloodstream where it inhibits the blood’s capacity to transport oxygen throughout the body. It may build up in parts of your home such as in your kitchen, garage, basement or fireplace area. Improperly adjusted burners or poorly ventilated flues for any fuel burning appliance will accumulate carbon monoxide in the home.

Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home.

Clues You Can See

Rusting or water streaking on vent/chimney

Loose or missing furnace panel

Sooting

Loose or disconnected vent/chimney connections

Debris or soot falling from chimney, fireplace or appliance

Loose masonry on chimney

Moisture inside of windows

Clues You Cannot See

Internal appliance damage or malfunctioning components

Improper burner adjustment

Hidden blockage or damage in chimneys

What You Can Do

Make sure appliances are installed according to manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes. Most appliances should be installed by professionals.

Have the heating system (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced annually.

Follow manufacturer’s directions for safe operation.

Examine vents and chimneys regularly for improper connections, visible rust or stains.

Notice problems that could indicate improper appliance operation:

Decreasing hot water supply

Furnace unable to heat house or runs constantly

Sooting, especially on appliances

Unfamiliar or burning odor

What You Should Not Do

Never burn charcoal indoors or in a garage.

Never service appliances without proper knowledge, skills and tools.

Never use the gas range or oven for heating.

Never leave a car running in a garage.

Never operate un-vented gas-burning appliances in a closed room.

Symptoms of Exposure

Early–

Headaches

Dizziness

Shortness of breath

Nausea

Prolonged–

Coma

Brain damage

Death

Courtesy of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Lung Association.