Grand Junction Fire Department urges residents to take the proper precautions.

The Grand Junction Fire Department (GJFD) has seen an increase in carbon monoxide poisoning calls during the winter months, and they want to educate people on prevention.

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when a person inhales combustion fumes. Too much carbon monoxide in the air will replace oxygen in red blood cells, preventing the oxygen from reaching other tissues and organs. Fuel-burning appliances in the home must be properly vented, and gas appliances must always be used properly. The Mayo Clinic also reminds us that caution must be used when working with solvents in a closed area. A common solvent found in paint and varnish removers, methylene chloride, can metabolize into carbon monoxide when inhaled and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide has no smell, so it is very important to have carbon monoxide alarms installed in your home.  

The GJFD reminds residents that it's not just older appliances that pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Running a vehicle inside a closed garage, water heaters, propane-burning space heaters, grills, wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, and portable generators all pose a risk. Even exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide can pose a risk and may cause issues over time.

In Grand Junction, there are about 100 calls a year about carbon monoxide poisoning, though the calls tend to be more frequent in colder months.

Some very simple precautions can be taken to prevent poisoning:

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

One in each hallway near sleeping quarters in the home. Check these batteries twice a year. If this alarm goes off leave the home right away, take all pets with you and call 911.

Open the Garage Door Before Starting Any Vehicles

This is especially risky in homes where the garage is attached. Never start a car in a closed garage and never leave the car running in a closed garage.

Always Use Gas Appliances as Instructed

Using a gas stove or oven to heat a home is never a good idea. Neither is running a generator in an enclosed space, gas camp stoves should be used outside only. Space heaters should only be used when someone is awake and present to monitor them, and a door or window can be opened to get fresh air.

Keep Fuel-Burning Appliances Properly Vented and Fireplaces in Good Condition

This includes keeping the chimney clean and the vents clear. Even during a construction or remodeling fireplace vents need to be kept clear.

Make Full Repairs Before Returning to the Site of an Incident

Making sure the problem has been fully repaired and there is no risk to residents and pets after a carbon monoxide incident before staying in the home again.

Carbon monoxide has no smell and no taste and cannot be seen. Symptoms of poisoning can be like that of the flu or virus and include a dull headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea or vomiting, confusion, shortness of breath, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness. The warning signs can often be subtle, however; to be very clear, this is a life-threating medical emergency. If you or someone you are with may possibly have carbon monoxide poisoning, it's necessary to get the individual to some fresh air and to seek medical treatment immediately.

We all want to keep warm and toasty this winter, but it's important to do it safely. We will be making sure to double-check our own homes, and hope you do the same.