Darke County, OH, October 12, 2009—  Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless and silent killer that, nationally, claims hundreds of lives each year. The Dare Red Cross is urging families to install carbon monoxide alarms and learn how to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. 

“Every home should have at least one carbon monoxide alarm in addition to their smoke alarms,” said Lynne Gump, Executive Director, Darke County Chapter.  “Both carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are relatively inexpensive and easy-to-maintain devices that have been proven to save lives and should be a key part of your family fire prevention and safety plan. There are even models that feature a combined smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, making it easier to purchase and test.” 

The American Red Cross recommends the following:

ü      Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas (avoid corners where air does not circulate).

ü      Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to test the CO alarm every month.

ü      Make sure all household appliances are installed according to manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes. Most appliances should be installed by professionals.

ü      Have heating systems (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced annually, checking for blockages, corrosion, partial and complete disconnections.

ü      Only burn charcoal outdoors, never inside a home, garage, vehicle or tent.

ü      Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially-enclosed area.

ü      Always make sure to turn off gas-powered engines, even if the garage door is open.

ü      Do not use gas appliances such as ranges, ovens or clothes dryers for heating your home.

ü      Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, move quickly to a fresh air location, and then call 911.

ü      Treat the alarm signal as a real emergency each time. If the alarm sounds and you are not experiencing any symptoms described above, press the reset button. If the alarm continues to sound, call the fire department.

The Red Cross depends on the generous support of it’s community to be ready to respond and help our neighbors who are affected by home fires.  You can help your neighbors recover from disasters like home fires by volunteering or making a tax-deductible donation today. For more Red Cross fire safety and preparedness information visit www.redcross.org/homefires .