FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
As fall progresses into winter and the days and nights become colder in the Ozarks, the Springfield Fire Department warns about the potential for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. While carbon poisoning is a danger year-round with over 400 fatalities annually nationwide, it becomes more prevalent during the fall and winter months as heating systems are turned on again.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- headache
- fatigue
- shortness of breath
- nausea
- dizziness
- mental confusion
- vomiting
- loss of muscular coordination
- loss of consciousness.
Here’s what you can do to protect your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide:
- install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms inside your home to provide early warning.
- install carbon monoxide alarms in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home.
- use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows and vents.
- make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
- have your gas burning furnace and water heater by a qualified technician every year
- have your chimney checked and cleaned every year.
- never use a gas oven for heating your home.
- avoid idling a car in the garage for an appreciable length of time.
Remember to check your smoke alarm monthly. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it should be replaced. You can contact the Springfield Fire Department at [email protected] or 417-874-2300 to request a free smoke alarm.
###
For media only: For more information, call the Springfield Fire Department media line at 417-874-2301.