DES MOINES, Iowa – As temperatures drop and Iowans turn up the heat, the Iowa State Fire Marshal Division is reminding residents to take simple precautions to protect themselves and their families from carbon monoxide poisoning.
November has been proclaimed Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month in Iowa, and the State Fire Marshal Division encourages Iowans to take these important safety steps:
- Check your alarms. Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Test them regularly and replace according to manufacturer recommendations.
- Inspect heating equipment. Have furnaces, fireplaces and other fuel-burning appliances inspected and serviced by qualified professionals.
- Use generators safely. Never operate generators indoors or in garages. Keep them outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors and vents.
- Never idle vehicles in garages. Carbon monoxide can accumulate even when the garage door is open.
- Recognize the symptoms. Headaches, dizziness, nausea, weakness and confusion can be warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.
If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds or poisoning is suspected, immediately move everyone outside to fresh air and call 911. Do not reenter the building until emergency responders say it is safe. Carbon monoxide exposure can be especially dangerous for pregnant individuals, infants, older adults and people with certain underlying health conditions.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. Taking time now, to check alarms and heating equipment, can help keep Iowa families safe throughout colder months.
For more information about carbon monoxide safety, visit the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association website.