It’s also a good idea to have your home’s heating system checked and tuned up periodically by a qualified professional. This will help prevent deteriorating conditions that may lead to a leak. Appliances, vents and other fuel-burning avenues should be inspected as well, looking for corrosion, soot, rust or blockages.
Your fireplace flue should be open when you use it, and make sure that a professional chimney cleaner helps maintain your outlet at least once a year. Wood-burning stoves also need to be inspected and should meet current EPA standards. It’s important to burn only wood in your stove, and make sure it’s placed on a stove board that will protect your floors from overheating.
If you use space heaters or power generators, make sure you are in a well-ventilated room, preferably stationing any generator outdoors and running a line inside. Gas-powered generators should be at least 10 feet from a home. Never use your stove to heat the house, and make sure that your stove is inspected and serviced periodically for potential leaks. Any outdoor grills or other devices meant to be used in the open air should not be brought in the house for use -- they generate extreme carbon monoxide levels.
If You Suspect Carbon Monoxide
If you suspect that carbon monoxide is reaching dangerous levels and is affecting you, the best plan is to get outside into fresh air. Once outside, try to remain still to maintain whatever remaining oxygen levels are in your blood. Seek medical attention promptly and be ready to have oxygen administered via a mask to boost your system.