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Part Two – Carbon Monoxide
• Have the heating system, vents, chimney and flue inspected
and cleaned by a qualified technician every year.
• Follow manufacturer’s directions for safe operation of all
fuel-burning appliances.
• Examine vents and chimneys regularly for improper connec
tions, visible rust or stains.
• Open a window when a fireplace or wood-burning stove is in
use, and provide adequate outdoor air for furnace and water
heater.
• Notice problems that could indicate improper appliance oper-
ation:
– Decreasing hot water supply
– Furnace unable to heat house or runs constantly
– Sooting, especially on appliances
– Unfamiliar or burning odor
– Yellow or orange flame
• Be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:
– headaches, dizziness, weakness, sleepiness, nausea, vomit-
ing, confusion and disorientation.
• Recognize that CO poisoning may be the cause when family
members suffer from flu-like symptoms that don’t disappear
but improve when they leave home for extended periods of
time.
What You Should Not Do...
• Never burn charcoal inside a home, garage, cabin, RV or
camper.
• Never install, service, or convert fuel-burning appliances from
one type to another without proper knowledge, skills, and
tools.
• Never use a gas range, oven, or clothes dryer for heating.
• Never operate unvented gas-burning appliances, such as
kerosene or natural gas space heaters, in a closed room.
• Never operate gasoline-powered engines (like vehicles,
motorcycles, lawn mowers, yard equipment or power tools) in
confined areas such as garages or basements,
even if
an out
side door or window is open.
• Never ignore a safety device when it shuts off an appliance.
• Never ignore a CO alarm.