Ways to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - National Fuel wants to remind everyone to protect themselves and their families from carbon monoxide poisoning this winter season.

They have provided some tips to help keep you protected from carbon monoxide poisoning:  

• Have your chimney, appliances and heating equipment inspected and tested by a qualified
professional every year.
• Install ventless heaters in accordance with manufacturer specifications, and never use them
as a primary heat source.
• Install at least one carbon monoxide detector in your home. Do not rely on carbon monoxide
detectors as a substitute for maintaining appliances, heating equipment or chimneys. If you
do choose to install a carbon monoxide detector, use it as an additional preventative
measure.*
• Clear snow and ice from exhaust vents and intake air vents for gas appliances to prevent
carbon monoxide from accumulating in your home.
-Never use a gas oven or stovetop for heating your home.
• Never run a gasoline engine (such as a gasoline generator) or an automobile in an enclosed
space.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are: fatigue, coughing, headache, irregular breathing, dizziness, overall paleness, nausea, and cherry red lips and/or ears.