Protect Against Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poses a serious risk to you and your family. Stay safe with these strategies.

As the temperature drops, carbon monoxide risks increase. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is released during the incomplete burning of fuel sources such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, and so on. If inhaled, carbon monoxide can prevent oxygen from reaching the different cells in the body, eventually leading to suffocation. Protect your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning this year by taking these preventative measures.

1) Clear Your Vents

One way to make sure that carbon monoxide isn't building up inside your home is to make sure that your home's vents are clear. Check external vents connected to your dryer, stove, furnace, and fireplace. It's particularly important to check your vents following a storm to make sure that debris isn't obstructing them. Additionally, check your vents throughout winter to make sure snow isn't blocking them.

2) Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As previously mentioned, carbon monoxide is both colorless and odorless. This makes is near impossible to detect carbon monoxide on your own. Installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home can help catch carbon monoxide leaks or build up before they prove deadly. You should have detectors installed on every level and in every sleeping area of your home. If your detectors go off, then quickly exit your home and contact emergency services.

3) Avoid Running Engines in Enclosed Spaces

Remember, proper ventilation is the key to avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning. This is why you should never run an engine or use a fuel burning appliance in an enclosed space. For instance, you should never operate a stove or grill in a poorly ventilated area like your basement. Additionally, you shouldn't run your car when your garage door is closed. Avoiding these behaviors will prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in your home.

Follow these tips to make sure your loved ones stay safe this season. Remember, another way to protect your family is by having the right insurance coverage. To find the right policy for you, trust the experts at Scavone Insurance in White Plains, New York. Contact us to get covered today.