Open garage door before starting fuelburning vehicles or equipment. Never leave running cars, trucks, vans, lawn mowers or any fuel-burning equipment or tool in an enclosed area (even with the garage door open, CO can reach a harmful level and seep into your home).
Be sure all fuel-burning equipment is properly installed, adjusted, and operated so that adequate ventilation is provided.
Burner flames on all appliances are correctly adjusted.
Furnace and water heater are properly vented.
Flue vents/chimneys are checked for blockages (leaves, bricks, mortar or bird nests).
Have appliances installed by a professional, and carefully follow manufacturers' instructions.
Do not cut off or restrict combustion air source to appliances (openings or ducts).
Furnace, gas water heater and clothes dryer should be inspected regularly by a professional heating or appliance contractor. NOTE: For a list of qualified heating contractors, call the central Indiana chapter of Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) at 317-636-4328.
Provide adequate ventilation in your house when using any type of combustion materials in stoves, fireplaces, or unvented space heaters, sever burn charcoal indoors or in an enclosed space.
Clean chimney and check for blockages, especially with fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.
Limit the smoking of tobacco products indoors, since the smoke contains carbon monoxide.
For an extra measure of safety, consider purchasing an electronic carbon monoxide detector. Many models are available from discount or hardware stores for under $70. Be sure the unit is listed in accordance with UL standard 2 034, effective October, 1995. Detectors powered by battery will need replacement batteries—check on the cost and availability of these before you buy. Plug-in models work on your home's electricity.
Carbon Monoxide detectors are not foolproof and should never replace proper maintenance and safety measures.
