Reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Tuesday, January 15th, 2013

Natural gas is a great energy source for home and business use. If it’s properly used, it can be a safe, clean and efficient fuel for stoves, ovens, furnaces, water heaters and fireplace log starters. However, if gas appliances are used incorrectly or are not properly maintained, dangerous levels of carbon monoxide (also known as the “silent killer”) can result.

As temperatures begin to drop and the desire to keep your home warm increases, CPS Energy urges customers to use fuel-burning heating equipment safely to avoid carbon-monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Safety First…

You cannot see or smell carbon monoxide. If you or your family suddenly experiences severe headaches or feels nauseated, tired, dizzy or faint, get out of your home immediately. Call the fire department at 9-1-1 and CPS Energy at 353-HELP (353-4357). CPS ENERGY VIDEO TIP
If you suspect carbon monoxide in your home, open windows to ventilate the area and shut off your furnace and other fuel-burning appliances.
A natural gas appliance getting adequate oxygen and adjusted properly will have a blue pilot or burner flame. A yellow or orange flame may indicate a problem and should be checked by a qualified technician. Make it a habit to have your fuel-burning appliances inspected at the beginning of every winter season. Also, call CPS Energy at 353-2222 if you need help with gas pilot lighting.
Install a carbon monoxide detector near the area where your family sleeps. Be familiar with the sound the alarm makes if CO is detected. Check the batteries every time you change the time on your clock each spring and fall.
If an alarm sounds, make sure it is the CO detector and not the smoke alarm. Check your family for symptoms. Don’t ignore symptoms, particularly if more than one person is feeling them.

Other Things to Keep in Mind…

When using a gas space heater, leave a window open a couple of inches for proper ventilation.
Don’t try to heat a room with your gas range, oven or clothes dryer. It’s more expensive and it’s dangerous.
Never leave a fire smoldering in your fireplace, and never use the fireplace and central furnace at the same time.
Never use a charcoal grill or a barbecue grill indoors.
Never use a portable gas camp stove indoors.
Fuel-burning appliances should always have the proper ventilation, according to their manufacturer’s instructions, and never be operated in an enclosed space.
Provide adequate combustion air according to appliance manufacturer recommendations. Make sure appliance fresh air intakes are not blocked or restricted. Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris or other blockages.
When purchasing gas equipment, buy only equipment carrying the seal of a national testing agency, such as the American Gas Association or Underwriters’ Laboratories.
Never let your car or truck idle in the garage with the garage door shut.
http://www.cpsenergy.com/

Reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Tuesday, January 15th, 2013

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