To help keep area residents and their families safe from carbon monoxide poisoning this winter, the Columbus Division of Fire would like to offer the following safety tips:

-Install CO alarms inside your home to provide early warning of accumulating CO. CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area.

-Test CO alarms at least once a month, and replace CO alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

-IF you need to warn a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle, generator, or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if the garage doors are open. Never leave your vehicle running when it is parked or covered in snow.

-Have fuel-burning household heating equipment (fireplaces, furnaces, water heaters, wood and coal stoves, space or portable heaters) and chimneys inspected by a professional every year before cold weather sets in.

-When using a fireplace, open the flue for adequate ventilation.

-Open a window slightly whenever using a kerosene or gas heater and only refuel the unit outside, after is has cooled.

-Never use your oven to heat your home.

-Only use barbecue grills outside. Never use them in the home or the garage.

-CO alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home and in or outside all sleeping areas.

-Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and the sound of CO alarms.

-If it is a battery powered intermittent alarm, check the battery. If it is a steady alarm or you are unable to determine, evacuate the dwelling and call 911. Do not re-enter until the responding agency says it is okay.

-Call a qualified technician to inspect all equipment.

Columbus Division of Fire