Winter is here again, and with the arrival of cold weather comes the increased risk of carbon monoxide (CO) in the home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, colorless, odorless gas created when fuels burn incompletely. This threat is heightened during winter with increased use of heaters and less ventilation in the home. CO is called the “silent killer” and exposure can result in illness and death. Keep yourself and your family safe this winter with these tips:

- Install a CO detector on every level of your home, including the basement, and place them in or near sleeping areas

- In a multi-unit building, install one in each unit and in the common/laundry area

- Test your CO alarms once a month

- Remove your vehicle from an attached garage while warming it up. Do not leave vehicles running in the garage, even if the door is open

- Clear snow from the vents for your dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace

- Make sure the flue is open when using a fireplace

- Never use an oven to heat your home, only use an oven while cooking food

- Do not use a generator indoors or in a garage. Only use them outside in a well-ventilated area

- Keep fuel-burning appliances clean, maintained and well-vented

- Be aware of CO poisoning symptoms, which include unexplained headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, sleepiness and confusion

If your CO alarm is activated, or you suspect symptoms of CO poisoning, move everyone to fresh air and call 911.