As gas furnace use increases during the winter, so the chances of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Your home heating system typically does not present a huge risk as long as everything is working correctly. A failing heat exchanger or other component of a gas furnace can cause a carbon monoxide leak so it’s suggested that you have your furnace inspected.

Evening if everything looks OK, a carbon monoxide alarm is still recommended to alert you of a buildup.

“Early detection can mean the difference between life and death when it comes to Carbon Monoxide poisoning,” said State Fire Marshal Doug Jorgensen. “CO alarms, along with smoke alarms, are one of the best ways to provide protection in your home for your family.”

Safe Kids Kansas and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommend the following.

• Prevent CO buildup in the first place – make sure heating appliances are in good working order and used only in well-ventilated areas. Don’t run a car engine or any other gas powered tool in the garage, even with the garage doors open. If you need to warm up your vehicle, move it outside first.
• Install alarms in the hallway near the bedrooms in each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home.  Keep alarms at least 15 inches from all fuel-burning appliances.
• Follow manufacturer’s directions for installation, testing, and using CO alarms. There are many options and styles to choose from including hardwired, combination smoke and CO alarms, and battery operated.  When you check your smoke alarm batteries each month, check the batteries on your CO alarms at the same time.
• Never use an oven or gas range for heating.
• Only use portable generators, gas camp stoves, and charcoal grills outside with proper ventilation. They cannot be used indoors, inside of a garage or enclosed porch.
• If more than one person in the home suddenly feels ill for no apparent reason, or if a CO alarm goes off, get everyone outside immediately and call 911 from a pre-arranged meeting place. Pay attention to pets, sometimes they will show signs of illness first. Don’t go back inside until the fire department or gas company says it is safe.

A carbon monoxide detector will cost about $20 and may plug in so you don’t have to worry about changing batteries.