Each year, approximately 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning not linked to fires, and more than 100,000 people visit emergency rooms after CO exposure, according to the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association (NCOAA). CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause severe illness when high levels are present in the air — and it can be deadly in minutes.
The Iowa Utilities Commission supports NCOAA and utilities in recognizing November as carbon monoxide awareness month and highlighting CO risk factors and prevention efforts.
The onset of cold weather is a good time to review the installation and working condition of fuel-sourced appliances in your home to make sure you do not have a CO leak.
Additionally, follow these tips to avoid CO exposure:
- Install CO alarms on every floor and test them monthly.
- Install an exhaust fan over gas stoves.
- Open the flue damper when using a fireplace and check flues, chimneys and vents regularly to ensure they are not obstructed by debris such as snow or leaves.
- Hire a professional to install or inspect, clean, and maintain furnaces, stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys.
- Ensure wood-burning stoves are properly vented and doors fit tightly.
- Do not use unvented fuel-burning space heaters, fuel-fired grills, gas-powered engines, or generators indoors or within 20 feet of a building or structure.
- Never heat your house with a gas oven, camping stove, or charcoal grill.
- Do not idle a vehicle in a garage, even if the overhead door is open.
The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headaches, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. If you think you have CO poisoning, get fresh air immediately and seek appropriate medical attention.
If you suspect a CO leak in your home, contact your gas utility for a home evaluation and do not return until a professional has determined the home is safe.
To learn more, register for the NCOAA carbon monoxide prevention webinar on November 18 or visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website for ways to protect your family from CO poisoning.