DO have your fuel-burning appliances — including oil and gas furnaces, gas
water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space
heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves — inspected by a trained professional at
the beginning of every heating season. Make certain that the flues and
chimneys are connected, in good condition, and not blocked.
DO choose appliances that vent their fumes to the outside whenever
possible, have them properly installed, and maintain them according to
manufacturers’ instructions.
DO read and follow all of the instructions that accompany any fuel-burning
device. If you cannot avoid using an unvented gas or kerosene space heater,
carefully follow the cautions that come with the device. Use the proper
fuel and keep doors to the rest of the house open. Crack a window to ensure
enough air for ventilation and proper fuel-burning.
DON’T idle the car in a garage — even if the garage door to the outside is
open. Fumes can build up very quickly in the garage and living area of your
home.
DON’T use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.
DON’T ever use a charcoal grill indoors — even in a fireplace.
DON'T sleep in any room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.
DON’T use any gasoline-powered engines (mowers, weed trimmers, snow
blowers, chain saws, small engines, or generators) in enclosed spaces.
DON’T ignore symptoms of CO poisoning, such as dizziness or nausea,
particularly if more than one person is feeling them. You could lose
consciousness and die if you do nothing.
For more information, go to
www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/coftsht.html.