Oregon Health Authority urges caution to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning during winter months

PORTLAND, Ore - As temperatures drop and Oregon households rely more on wood stoves, space heaters and other heating sources, Oregon Health Authority is reminding people around the state to take steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced whenever fuel is burned. In winter, carbon monoxide risks increase due to tighter home ventilation and heavier use of heating appliances. Exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, loss of consciousness and can be fatal without prompt treatment. 

“Carbon monoxide tragedies are preventable,” said David Farrer, Ph.D., toxicologist in the OHA Public Health Division’s Environmental Public Health Section. “Proper maintenance, ventilation and working carbon monoxide alarms are essential for keeping families safe during the winter."

In Oregon last year, there were 121 emergency and urgent care visits from carbon monoxide poisoning. Since Oct. 1 this year, there have been 55 carbon monoxide poisoning emergency and urgent care visits. 

Wood stoves and heating safety

 Improperly installed, poorly maintained, or inadequately vented wood stoves are a leading cause of winter carbon monoxide incidents. OHA urges residents to: 

• Have wood stoves, chimneys and vents inspected and cleaned annually by certified professionals.
• Ensure all wood-burning devices are properly vented to the outside.
• Never use outdoor heating or cooking devices, such as camp stoves, charcoal grills or generators - inside homes, garages or enclosed spaces. 

Additional safety tips

• Install battery-powered or battery-backed-up carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home.
• Test alarms monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
• Never run vehicles, generators or gas-powered tools in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces.
• Seek fresh air immediately and call 911 if a carbon monoxide alarm sounds or if symptoms occur. 

For video of woodstoves in use and battery-backed -up carbon monoxide alarms, click here. 

For more information on carbon monoxide prevention and winter safety, visit OHA’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preparedness/currenthazards/pages/carbonmonoxidepoisoning.aspx.

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