How can I avoid CO poisoning?

A: Carbon monoxide, known by the chemical formula “CO,” is a poisonous gas that kills approximately 500 people in the United States alone every year. Of that number, about 200 people were killed by carbon monoxide emitted from a consumer product, like a stove or water heater. You can’t hear, taste, see or smell it. It’s nicknamed the “silent killer’ because it sneaks up on its victims and can take lives without warning.

The most important steps are preventive. Have a qualified service professional inspect your fuel-burning appliances at least once a year. Install UL certified CO alarms outside of sleeping areas and near all fuel-burning appliances.

Other precautions include:

• Avoid using charcoal grills inside the home, tent or camper, or in an unventilated garage.
• Don’t allow vehicle exhaust fumes to enter the home.
• Ensure all fuel-burning appliances are properly ventilated.