Often called the invisible or silent killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely.

A person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over a longer period of time or by a large amount of CO over a shorter period of time.

The only way to detect carbon monoxide is with a CO alarm. 

• Install CO alarms within 10 feet of each sleeping room or inside each sleeping room.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations that are included in your alarm's instructions. 
• Test CO alarms monthly. Replace alarms every five to seven years.
• Change your CO alarm batteries at least once a year. Make a habit of replacing batteries each fall or spring during Daylight Saving Time.
  • Even hard-wired alarms need fresh batteries. 
• If a CO alarm sounds, evacuate immediately and call 911 from outside your home. 
• Clear snow and debris from furnace, dryer, fireplace, or oven vents around your home to prevent a CO buildup. 
• Alarms for the deaf and hard of hearing

In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel can be sources of carbon monoxide.

Have fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys inspected by a professional every year before cold weather sets in.

When using a fireplace, open the flue for adequate ventilation. Never use your oven to heat your home.

In the winter, clear snow and debris from furnace, dryer, fireplace or oven vents around your home to prevent a CO buildup. 

Know the signs of CO poisoning

Common signs of CO poisoning include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath

If you suspect you or someone you know may be suffering from CO poisoning, call 911 immediately.