Division of Fire

CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY

In the past decade, people have become more aware of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide. Vehicles, generators or lawn equipment running in an attached garage can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Protect yourself and your family from CO poisoning by following these safety guidelines:

  • Never use a gas or kerosene space heater in the home. Deaths have been attributed to the use of these heaters when used inside the home.
  • Never use a generator indoors or in a garage, carport or basement. Put the generator outside and away from doors, windows and vents.
  • Never use your stovetop or oven to heat your home.
  • Have your heating system (fireplaces, furnaces, etc.) inspected and serviced at least once a year.
  • Install a CO detector in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping area, per manufacturer specifications. CO detectors shall be installed in ALL rental dwelling and rooming units which are heated by an individual gas-fired furnace or boiler serving six (6) or less dwelling/rooming units and all suites in all buildings abutting (above, below or next to) the boiler/furnace room and enclosed motor vehicle parking garages.
  • CO alarms are NOT substitutes for smoke alarms. Smoke alarms must be installed on every level of your home, and maintained regularly.
  • Make sure chimneys and vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of snow build-up or other blockages.
  • When purchasing new heating equipment, choose products tested and labeled by an independent testing laboratory. Read product directions closely before use.

Symptoms of CO poisoning include: severe headache, mental confusion, seizures, dizziness or faintness and nausea. Prolonged exposure can result in vomiting, blackouts and eventually brain damage or death. Evacuate the house immediately if you or a family member have these symptoms.

If your CO alarm sounds:

  • If it is a battery-powered intermittent alarm, check the battery.
  • If it is a steady alarm, or you are unable to determine the cause of the alarm, evacuate the dwelling.
  • Seek medical help by calling Lakewood Dispatch at 216-521-1234.
  • Do not re-enter the dwelling until the responding agency says it is okay.
Red Cross Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet »

For more information on Carbon Monoxide Safety,
call the Lakewood Fire Prevention Bureau at 216-529-6660.