Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek issued a reminder last week that January can be one of the deadliest times for carbon monoxide poisoning. CO is most likely to accumulate as heating sources are put to the test and houses are sealed to battle the cold.
Stanek shared these tips from the state Department of Public Safety:
• Install a UL-listed carbon monoxide alarm in your home that will sound when potentially dangerous levels of CO are present.
• Make sure your furnace has an adequate air supply. Make sure your heating system and all fuel-burning appliances are adequately vented and properly maintained.
•When using a fireplace, wood stove or space heater, provide adequate ventilation.
• Portable propane camping equipment and gas barbecues should never be used inside cabins, tents, fish houses, recreational vehicles or boats.
• If your car is stuck in the snow, make sure that the tailpipe is cleared before starting the car engine.
PAMELA MILLER
