Heat Your Home Safely This Winter to Avoid the Dangers of Carbon Monoxide, the Silent Killer

Taking a few simple safety precautions will help keep your family safe this winter from Carbon Monoxide poisoning

Winter is fast approaching and with it the increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, often called the silent killer. Each year in the US more than 400 people die in non-fire related incidents, and tens of thousands visit emergency departments due to unintentional carbon monoxide exposure. This is more reason to take safety precautions now, before the cold weather arrives in full force.1{index=1}

Silent Killer

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. You cannot see it, smell it or taste it, but it can be fatal. Acting now to prevent it is crucial.

Know the Symptoms

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often mimic flu or food illness and include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. Symptoms progress faster in children and infants. If you suspect poisoning, get fresh air immediately and seek emergency care.2{index=2}

Major Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Portable generators are a major culprit, nearly 40 percent of CO deaths are linked to them, especially when used too close to the home or in enclosed spaces.3{index=3}

Other common sources include malfunctioning furnaces, water heaters, fireplace systems and other fuel burning appliances that are improperly vented or maintained.4{index=4}

Carbon Monoxide Alarms Are Critical

Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and just outside each sleeping area. Make sure each alarm has a battery backup. Test both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly to confirm they are working. Replace CO alarms every five years.5{index=5}

Perform Maintenance

Have all fuel burning heating appliances, like furnaces, water heaters, and chimneys—inspected every year by a qualified professional. If repairs are needed, hire a licensed technician. Have your chimney and vents cleaned and cleared annually to prevent blockages from dirt, debris or bird nests that could cause CO to build up.6{index=6}

Space Heaters

If you use fuel burning space heaters, ensure they include an oxygen depletion sensor that turns the heater off in low oxygen conditions. Do not use these devices if the sensor is damaged or malfunctioning. Never leave a space heater running unattended or while sleeping.

What You Should Never Do

• Never heat your home using a gas oven or stove
• Never burn anything in a non-vented stove or fireplace
• Before lighting a fire, open the fireplace damper and leave it open until ashes are cold; embers can remain hot for days
• Never use a kerosene space heater in an enclosed space
• Never run a generator inside the house, garage, basement, or shed; always place generators at least 20 feet away from the home, exhaust directed away from all doors, windows and vents7{index=7}
• Never use a charcoal or gas grill inside or near open windows or doors
• Never operate a vehicle in an enclosed space, including attached garages, even with the door open

Winter and Weather Preparedness

During winter storms or power outages, households may rely on backup generators, grills or heaters. Always use these items outdoors and avoid enclosed spaces. Ensure your home is prepared for extreme cold by keeping carbon monoxide detectors up to date, maintaining heating equipment, and preparing for power interruption in advance.8{index=8}

Recent Trends and Risk Awareness

In Georgia, carbon monoxide incidents rose sharply during 2024, with over 1,000 reported cases, up from 423 the year before—underscoring the increased risk during weather events and power outages.9{index=9}

The most vulnerable include children, older adults, and people with chronic health issues or anemia. CO toxicity varies, and exposure can lead to long-term brain or heart damage, especially when symptoms are delayed or overlooked.10{index=10}

Take Action Now

• Test or replace CO detector batteries every spring and fall
• Check that all fuel burning appliances are professionally inspected now before winter begins
• Never use fuel burning devices indoors, even during heat emergencies
• Ensure your family knows CO symptoms and what to do if alarms sound
• Create a winter emergency plan including alternate heating methods and evacuation routes

Carbon monoxide may be undetectable with human senses, but with proactive safety steps, awareness, and preparation, you can keep your home warm and your family protected. Stay safe this winter.