The Overbeck Fund

Safety Tips

Remember:  As temperatures drop, the potential for CO poisonings and deaths rises!

Steps to protect you from CO poisoning this winter

* Never use portable generators inside homes or garages, even if doors and windows are open. Use generators outside only, far away from the home.

* Never bring a charcoal grill into the house for heating or cooking. Do not barbeque in the garage.

* Never use a gas range or oven for heating.

* Open the fireplace damper before lighting a fire and keep it open until the ashes are cool. An open damper may help prevent build-up of poisonous gases inside the home.

* Have some heating systems (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced annually by a trained service technician.

* Install battery-operated CO alarms or CO alarms with battery backup in your home outside separate sleeping areas.

* Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, get outside to fresh air immediately, and then call 911.

    Homeowners should remember not to install carbon monoxide detectors directly above or beside fuel-burning appliances, or with in fifteen feet of heating or cooking appliances, or in or near very humid areas such as bathrooms. When considering where to place a carbon monoxide detector, keep in mind that although carbon monoxide is roughly the same weight as air (carbon monoxide's specific gravity is 0.9657, as stated by the EPA; the National Resource Council lists the specific gravity of air as one), it may be contained in warm air coming from combustion appliances such as home heating equipment. If this is the case, carbon monoxide will rise with the warmer air. A typical plug in or battery operated carbon monoxide detectors is readily available at most hardware stores in the $20 - $30 range.

Recommendations from health agencies:
   The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends every home have at least one carbon monoxide alarm installed near the sleeping area. The International Association of Fire Chiefs recommends alarms are located on every level of the home for additional protection.
   The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) are sounding the CO alarm. Tragic deaths are happening from carbon dioxide poisoning while trying to keep warm. Don’t let this invisible killer into your home. The commission voted to require manufacturers place a prominent “danger” on all new generators and their packaging.