Natural gas appliances are typically very safe to use. But
a malfunctioning appliance can create carbon monoxide gas, which can be deadly.
Carbon monoxide is produced when natural gas, propane or other fossil fuels
fail to burn completely. Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a colorless, odorless gas.
An awareness of what produces carbon monoxide can help
protect you and your family. Be sure your natural gas appliances are inspected
regularly by a licensed contractor to ensure that they are functioning
properly, and repair any malfunctioning appliances immediately.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness,
headaches, queasy stomach and drowsiness. Continued exposure can cause
death.
If you use gas in your home or business, review these safety
tips:
The flame in the gas appliances generally should be blue,
possibly with flecks of orange. If the flame is mostly yellow, that indicates
that the gas is not completely burning and is giving off carbon monoxide.
Never store items in, on or around a gas appliance that
might obstruct air flow.
Forced-air furnaces generally have a filter that cleans
the air before heating and circulating it throughout the home. Check the filter
regularly and clean or replace when necessary. Most replacement filters are
inexpensive.
When installing a new or cleaned filter, be sure to properly
re-install the front panel door of the furnace so it fits snugly. Never operate
the furnace without the front panel door properly in place, as dangerous gases
may escape.
Make sure your furnace and water heater are inspected annually
by a professional heating contractor. This is the first line of defense in
CO prevention. Also, be sure to clean or replace your furnace filter throughout
the heating season, and check your chimney or dryer vent for blockages.
Check for signs of improper venting, such as soot around
the appliance or moisture on the inside of windows when the appliance is operating.
Vacuum regularly around the furnace, especially around
the burner compartment, to prevent a buildup of dust and lint.
Be safe -- install a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector.
Use only space heaters approved by local fire codes and
installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you're using a
vent-free heater, always crack a window or exterior door for ventilation.
Never use a portable barbecue or hibachi as a home heater. They produce carbon
monoxide, are not properly insulated and can easily overturn. Also, don't
use a gas range, oven or clothes dryer for heating.
Keep all vents and chimneys clear of debris and other
blockages.
Don't line oven or range burners with foil.
Check fireplaces for closed or blocked flues.
Get your chimney inspected, swept and cleaned as needed.
Make sure your exterior dryer vent is free of lint.
Do not leave a car running in a garage, even if the garage
door is open.
Never use a propane or kerosene heater indoors without
proper ventilation.
Periodically check range pilots for carbon build-up.
