Since exposure can cause drowsiness, people can be overcome while sleeping. To protect against carbon monoxide poisoning it's important to have heaters, appliances and combustible fuel sources regularly cleaned and inspected to ensure they are operating properly. Appliances should be installed according to manufacturer's directions. And chimneys and vent pipes should also be inspected for blockages that can lead to improper ventilation of toxic exhaust fumes. Kaufman stresses that people should never burn charcoal indoors, use kerosene space heaters in areas without good ventilation or turn on a gas cooking stove to heat indoors.
People often try to get creative in the winter, especially when the power is out.
Installing audible carbon monoxide detectors in your home is helpful. These should be placed in or near bedrooms and be loud enough to awaken you during the night. Newer devices should have fewer problems with false alarms than older units. If you or other family members experience signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, it's important to get fresh air as soon as possible. Open windows, doors and turn off any fuel sources in the home.