WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the seasons change, temperatures drop, and we switch our thermostats to heat, it’s important to stay aware of a hidden danger: carbon monoxide. Heat sources that use natural gas, propane, butane, coal, kerosene, wood or oil rely on a proper mix of air and fuel for complete combustion. When combustion is incomplete, carbon monoxide is produced—a colorless, odorless and invisible gas that can be deadly.

What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas created by burning fossil fuels. You can’t see, taste or smell it, making it a silent and serious health risk. CO exposure can lead to poisoning and, in severe cases, death.

Health effects of CO exposure

Carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen in your blood, which can cause symptoms such as:

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea and vomiting

• Chest pain

• Impaired vision

• Confusion

In extreme cases, CO exposure can cause asphyxiation and death. It also impairs judgment and reaction time, making it difficult for victims to protect themselves. Children, older adults and individuals with heart or respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable to CO poisoning.

Safety tips to prevent CO exposure

• Install CO alarms

  • Place alarms in a central location outside each sleeping area, on every level of your home, and wherever required by local laws or codes.

  • For maximum safety, interconnect all alarms—if one sounds, they all do.

• Follow installation and maintenance guidelines

  • Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation, maintenance, and replacement.

  • Choose alarms with labels from recognized testing laboratories.

• Test CO alarms regularly

  • Test alarms at least once a month.

  • If the alarm signals a low battery, replace it immediately. If the alarm continues to sound, call emergency services.

• Respond quickly to alarms

  • If the alarm goes off, move everyone to fresh air outside or near an open window or door. Call emergency services and stay in the fresh air until help arrives.

• Use vehicles safely

  • If you need to warm up a vehicle, move it out of the garage immediately after starting it.

  • Never run a vehicle, engine, or motor indoors, even with the garage doors open.

  • Ensure the exhaust pipe is free of snow or other obstructions.

• Clear vents after snowstorms

  • Check that vents for dryers, furnaces, stoves, and fireplaces are not blocked by snow or debris.

• Operate Generators and Grills Outdoors

  • Use generators in well-ventilated areas outdoors, away from windows, doors, and vents.

  • Never use gas or charcoal grills indoors—they can produce dangerous levels of CO.

By following these safety measures, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of carbon monoxide this winter. Stay alert and stay safe.