With winter’s frosty grip tightening around Central Indiana, we all crave warmth and coziness. But along with cranking up the heat and lighting festive candles comes an increased risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This silent, odorless gas can be deadly, but the good news is it’s also preventable.
Why Winter Brings Heightened CO Danger:
Hibernating Heating Systems
Furnaces, boilers, and space heaters work overtime during cold months. Faulty equipment or blocked vents can trap CO indoors.
Sealed-up Homes
Closed windows and doors keep the heat in but also trap CO if it’s present.
Alternative Heating Sources
Generators and kerosene heaters, used during power outages or in certain areas, can emit CO if not adequately ventilated.
Holiday Traditions
Fireplaces and decorative candles, beloved holiday elements, can be CO culprits if not used cautiously.
Don’t Let the Holidays Become Hazards:
Fortunately, simple steps can prevent a potential tragedy:
- Schedule annual inspections: You must schedule yearly or bi-annual heating system inspections from a qualified professional like the team at Hoosier Indoor Air. We can catch potential issues before they become real issues.
- Proper ventilation: Open windows and doors briefly using alternative heating sources or fireplaces. Never use generators or grills indoors.
- Candle caution: Ensure proper ventilation when using candles and extinguish them before leaving the room.
Most Importantly, Install a Good CO Detector:
CO detectors are your first line of defense against this invisible threat. They sound a loud alarm when CO levels become dangerous, giving you time to evacuate and seek help. However, not all detectors are created equal… and installing them incorrectly can negate their protection. We recommend consulting with the qualified HVAC professionals at Hoosier Indoor Air to ensure your CO detector is high quality and installed correctly.
Remember, prevention is key! By following these tips and investing in a quality CO detector, you can enjoy the cozy warmth of winter without the worry of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Stay Safe, Stay Warm, and Enjoy The Winter!
We hope you and your families are enjoying this beautiful Indiana winter. If there’s anything the comfort pros at Hoosier Indoor Air can do to help, get in touch. You can contact us online or call us directly at 317-466-7437.
Spring is right around the corner… hang in there, Indiana!
Additional Resources:
- National Safety Council: [https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/other-poisons/carbon-monoxide]
- American Lung Association: [https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/carbon-monoxide]
