Columbia Gas urges safety during National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month

November is National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, and Columbia Gas of Ohio would like to remind customers to take precautions to protect themselves, their families and their homes from carbon monoxide leaks.

CO leaks are sometimes associated with gas leaks, but they are not the same. CO is produced when fuels like gasoline, wood, natural gas, propane or oil burn incompletely. CO leaks can occur if a natural gas appliance malfunctions, so it is crucial to have a professional routinely perform safety and maintenance checks around your home.

CO is odorless, tasteless and noncorrosive, so take extra precautions to stay safe from this “silent killer.”

—Install CO detectors throughout your home: Like smoke detectors, CO detectors play a critical role in home safety. Install a CO detector on every floor of your home and in every room where someone sleeps. Remember to test your CO detectors regularly.

—Know CO poisoning symptoms: The symptoms of CO poisoning can look like symptoms of the flu and may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and irregular breathing. A warning sign is if you or a family member feels tired at home but fine when you leave.

—Don’t ignore the warning signs: At high concentrations CO can be fatal within five minutes. If you or a family member doesn’t feel well and you suspect CO poisoning, take the concern seriously.

You can implement measures and practices to lower the risk of CO exposure and leaks in your home. Build the following habits into your home emergency action plan and annual routine:

—Have fuel-burning appliances like your furnace inspected regularly by a qualified technician, especially at the start of every winter heating season. A qualified technician can ensure your appliances are functioning safely, but they also can check that the appliances are using energy efficiently, potentially saving you money on your energy bill.

—Find and utilize qualified contractors.

—Check vents and chimneys regularly and clear them of any debris or other blockages.

—Use space heaters safely and only in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.

—Only heat your home using appliances made for that purpose. Never use a stove or oven to heat your home.

—Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do if you detect a CO leak. If you believe you have a CO leak, leave the area to get fresh air, call 911, and do not go back until repairs are made and it is safe to reenter your home.

Your safety and the safety of your family is critically important. If you believe you are smelling the rotten egg odor of natural gas, stop what you are doing, leave the area, and call 911 and Columbia Gas from a safe distance at 1-800-344-4077.

Learn more about carbon monoxide and find more safety tips at www.ColumbiaGasOhio.com/CO.