Although Florida perpetuates sunny beaches, it does get cold, especially in North Florida. You may find yourself spending more time indoors. When it is chilly outside, there is an increase in the usage of fireplaces and wood stoves.  While these methods keep spaces warm, it can also increase exposure to carbon monoxide (CO).

Carbon monoxide is produced by fuel-burning equipment such as grills, portable fuel powered space heaters, gas ranges/stoves or water heaters or fireplaces.  Outside, if we have vehicles idling or generators too close to buildings, we can also have carbon monoxide enter the home. Poor ventilation or blocked exhaust vents can allow CO to build up indoors.  CO deaths have been on the rise since 1999 according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Heating equipment and portable generators are attributed to the top causes. Installing carbon monoxide detectors, which can prevent serious illness and harm, especially to children, are one way to prevent harm.  Following are some additional ways to prevent accidental poisoning.

Top 10 Tips: 

• Install a CO alarm if you have an attached garage or have gas appliances. When you change the clocks, also replace the batteries to ensure they are fresh and working.  
• Ensure your CO detectors are working properly.
• Schedule regular inspection and maintenance of heating systems and fuel-burning appliances.
• Open the damper on a fireplace to prevent the build up of poisonous gases inside the home.
• Avoid using outdoor heating or cooking equipment indoors. Do not burn charcoal inside a house, garage, vehicle, tent, or fireplace.
• Use generators outside, more than 20 feet away from home, doors, and windows.
• Have fireplace, including chimneys, flues, and vents, professionally inspected yearly.
• When buying a space heater look for safety standards that will turn off the appliance if the oxygen level falls too low.
• Never leave an automobile running in a closed garage or in a garage attached to the house – even with the garage door open.
• When driving, keep the rear window or tailgate of a vehicle closed, as CO from the exhaust can get sucked inside.

Carbon Monoxide is invisible, odorless, and easy to overlook. Check with your local fire department to see if they have any programs providing and installing CO detectors. The New Year  is the time to check in and ensure you have the proper safety measures in place to keep you and your family healthy year-round!

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