UGI Utilities, Inc. is responding to an increasing number of carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies and urges customers to know the symptoms of CO poisoning and take simple steps to prevent exposure.
Cases typically increase in the winter because of heating equipment issues or the unsafe running of vehicles or other equipment in enclosed spaces such as a garage. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 100,000 people in the U.S. go to the emergency room each year because of CO poisoning. CO is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that is a by-product of the incomplete combustion of fuels such as wood, charcoal, gasoline, kerosene, oil, natural gas, and propane.
CO poisoning can be fatal. Anyone who thinks they might be experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning should immediately seek fresh air and prompt medical attention. Also, call 911 or UGI at 800-276-2722. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, and dizziness.
Additional signs there may be a build-up of CO in your home include:
- Significant condensation on walls and windows
- House pets becoming sluggish
- Residents suffering flu-like symptoms or feeling unusually tired
- Sooty or smoky smell coming from a malfunctioning appliance
The following simple steps can help prevent CO exposure and poisoning:
- Make sure working carbon monoxide detectors, with fresh batteries, are on each floor of your home, including one in each bedroom.
- Do not run a vehicle or generator inside confined spaces. This includes a garage, even if the door is open.
- If your heating system has not been serviced recently, have a qualified professional check your furnace, water heater, and other internal combustion appliances.
- Check the connections to your chimney or flue for damage or corrosion. In addition, check for black stains visible on the outside of your chimney or flue. These stains can indicate a blockage. A damaged or blocked chimney could allow exhaust gas, including CO, to enter your home or workplace. You may also contact a heating professional to have your chimney and flue checked.
- Check that both internal and external combustion air vents are unobstructed. External vents can become blocked by leaves and other debris.
- Change or clean furnace filters regularly. Clogged filters can reduce the efficiency of your heating equipment and impact normal operations.
- If the heating equipment in your home or business is not working because of an electric power outage, never use an open oven or grill inside your home to provide heat.
- Use caution when using unvented space heaters, which can be a source of CO. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions regarding the use of these heaters.
UGI also reminds everyone if they smell gas, act fast! If you smell the rotten-egg-like smell added to natural gas, evacuate immediately. Get at least the length of a football field away and then call 911 or UGI at 800-276-2722.
