. . . from Dee Jepsen, State Safety Leader, OSU Extension

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is often called the invisible gas because it emits no color or odor, and is very common in many U.S. homes during the winter months. This gas is produced when fuels are burned, such as gasoline, kerosene, propane, natural gas, fuel oil, wood, and charcoal. Culprits that emit deadly concentrations of this gas are common household items, including automobiles, gas powered generators, furnaces and chimneys. More than 200 people die each year in the US from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Prevent CO poisoning by installing one carbon monoxide detector in your home and another in the garage or workshop. CO inhalation is easily preventable, yet it accounts for 50% of all fatal poisonings in the developed world. Homes should be checked annually for leaky chimneys or furnaces. Gas-powered heaters should be used in well-ventilated spaces, never in closed barns, workshops or garages. If it is necessary to “warm-up” your car in winter months, do it in open spaces – outside the garage, or by opening the garage door.

Take a second: To check the batteries in your CO detector, and make sure you have adequate ventilation when burning fuels in enclosed areas.