Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that robs the body of oxygen needed to survive. Burning any fuel without proper combustion can produce carbon monoxide. Fuels such as coal, gasoline, kerosene, oil, wood, propane and natural gas are all sources.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the common cold or flu. They include headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath and fatigue.

If you suspect a carbon monoxide problem, immediately open doors and windows and get out of the house or building into fresh air. Call MichCon at 800.947.5000 or your natural gas provider or a local heating contractor immediately to have an emergency inspection performed (fee may apply). If necessary, seek medical attention.

To protect yourself and your family from the dangers of CO:

Do:

Install carbon monoxide detectors on a wall or ceiling near all sleeping areas in your home to detect the presence of carbon monoxide.

Make sure gas appliances are properly installed, vented and maintained.

Have a professional maintenance check of your furnace and other fuel-burning appliances annually.

Check yearly to make sure flues, vents and chimneys are connected, in good condition and clear of debris.

Keep the area around your heating equipment clean and unblocked, to allow proper airflow.

Keep all furnace compartment doors in place and secure.

 

Do not:

Use a gas range or oven to heat your home.

Operate a vehicle, lawn mower or grill in a closed garage or use an outdoor grill inside the home.

Operate a generator inside your home, garage or other enclosed building.

Sleep in a room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.

Use a wood-burning fireplace and furnace simultaneously for long periods of time. This can cause backdrafting.

 

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