How to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

  • Published
  • By (Courtesy article)
  • 509th Civil Engineer Squadron

Winter is coming and that means the risk of Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning will increase. Did you know a person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over a long period of time, or by a large amount of CO over a short amount of time?  Don’t worry though; here are some safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to help prevent CO poisoning: 

  • Always Test CO alarms at least once a month; replace them according to the manufacturer’s instruction.
  • If the CO alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors, or by an open window or door. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call for help (# 911) from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel arrive.
  • If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motors indoors, even if garage doors are open.
  • Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not covered with snow.
  • During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build-up.
  • Gas or charcoal grills can produce CO — only use outside.

     

Whiteman AFB Fire Emergency Services would like you and your family to be safe this winter season. If you have any questions about fire prevention or fire safety, please contact our Fire Prevention/Public Fire Education Office for information at 660-687-6080/6083/6374.