While Minnesota winters are often beautiful, they can also be brutally cold. This time of year, as temperatures drop well below freezing across the state, many of us spend more time indoors with our heat cranked to keep us warm and comfortable. But while we are escaping the cold, we are also increasing our risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Why Winter Increases the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
CO is an invisible, tasteless, odorless gas that’s produced by burning fuels such as gas, oil, wood, or charcoal – the vary things we use to heat our homes. According to the CDC, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires each year. More than 100,000 will visit an emergency department, and more than 14,000 will be hospitalized. Winter increases our risk for carbon monoxide poisoning in several ways.
Increased Use of Heating Appliances
During the cold winter months, the use of furnaces, space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves increases. If these devices are not properly installed, malfunction or aren’t vented correctly, they can produce dangerous levels of CO.
Less Fresh Air & Ventilation
In the winter, you likely don’t keep your doors and windows open to let in fresh air, but an airtight house can make it harder for CO to escape. If there is a leak or malfunction, CO can accumulate in your home more easily in the colder months.
Power Outages
Heavy snowfalls and blizzards are known to cause power outages, prompting the use of alternative heat sources that aren’t always the safest, such as using a portable generator or a grill indoors. When used indoors, these types of fuel-burning appliances can quickly produce dangerous levels of CO.
Blocked Vents & Chimneys
Snow and ice can pile up on Minnesota homes, blocking vents, flues, and chimneys during the winter. This can make to so CO is unable to escape from your home, causing it to back up into your living spaces.
Reduced Dissipation
Cold weather itself increases CO’s density. This makes it easier for the deadly gas to accumulate indoors, especially in enclosed spaces like garages and basements.
How to Stay Safe from CO this Winter
For the most part, carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable, but it does require awareness and proactive measures. Here are a few tips you can follow that will keep you and your loved ones safe from CO during the cold winter months.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Make sure you have at least one CO detector on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
Maintain Heating Systems
Have all your fuel-burning appliances, such as your furnace, water heater and fireplace, inspected and serviced by qualified professionals each year.
Never Use Outdoor Equipment Indoors
Grills, generators, fuel-burning engines and camp stoves all produce CO and should never be used in your home, garage, basement or any other enclosed or partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Clear vents, flues, and chimneys of snow, ice, and debris. Use exhaust fans over your gas appliances to prevent CO build up and make sure they are vented outside.
Never Warm Up Your Car in the Garage
Whether the garage door is open or not, CO can build up in the garage from a running vehicle. If it’s attached to your house, CO and seep into your home. Never warm up or run your car for any length of time while it’s inside your garage.
Educate Your Family
Teach everyone in your household about the dangers of CO poisoning and what to do if the alarm sounds. Make sure everyone knows to exit immediately, leaving the doors open and that you have a designated place to meet so you can perform a proper headcount.
Legal Claims Involving Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
In Minnesota, victims of carbon monoxide poisoning have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. If you or a loved one has suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning, Brazil Sweeney Law Group will fight for you. Our dedicated legal team and experienced Minneapolis personal injury lawyers understand the unique challenges and life-altering hardships faced by victims of carbon monoxide poisoning and we are committed to advocating for your rights to get you the compensation you deserve. Call now for a free, no-obligation case review and let us get to work for you. You don’t pay, unless we win.