With colder temperatures in the forecast, residents have begun turning on their furnaces to heat their homes. The Plymouth Police and Fire departments encourage residents to be aware of the risks and signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Any fuel-burning equipment or appliance has the potential to produce the poisonous gas carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating. When it’s inhaled, carbon monoxide combines with blood cells and prevents the body from absorbing oxygen. When the oxygen-deficient blood reaches the heart or brain, it can cause damage resulting in illness or death.

To help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, the Plymouth Police and Fire departments urge residents to test their carbon monoxide detectors monthly and change the batteries yearly. Units with an audible alarm and digital display are best. Residents should learn to differentiate between the sounds of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. According to state law, carbon monoxide alarms must be within 10 feet of each bedroom in a house.

Signs and Symptoms
Physical symptoms of initial carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, fatigue, blurred vision and flu-like symptoms. Severe exposure to the gas can cause convulsions, unconsciousness, cardiac or respiratory failure and death.

Additional signs of carbon monoxide inside a house can include high indoor humidity with condensation on walls and windows, stuffy or stale indoor air, and soot or water collecting near a burner or vent.

Residents who notice symptoms or are alerted by a carbon monoxide detector should open windows to ventilate the area, shut off the furnace or other fuel-burning appliances, get all occupants, including pets, out of the house and call 911. Public safety personnel will test the air for carbon monoxide upon arrival. 

Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Build-Up
There are a few of ways to prevent a build-up of carbon monoxide within the home. Tips include: 

• Never operate an automobile, lawn mower, combustion engine or grill in a garage or enclosed area.
• Ensure the home’s fresh air intake is not blocked or restricted. 
• Ensure all fuel-burning appliances are properly ventilated and professionally inspected. 
• Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris or other blockages.

For more information, call the Plymouth Fire Department at 763-509-5120. In an emergency, call 911.