Sulfur dioxide is particularly threatening to people with asthma, in whom it can constrict the airways leading to and from the lungs, making breathing difficult. People with lung disease and allergies may also have adverse reactions to sulfur dioxide fumes. Sulfur dioxide can also cause irritation of skin and eyes. Indoor air contamination by combustion pollutants is a significant health problem. Harmful combustion pollutants produced by fuel-burning devices can reach unsafe levels.
Proper ventilation is important.
All fuel-burning devices need air in order to burn properly. In addition, if exhaust pipes, chimneys, or other ventilation systems are clogged or cracked, deadly quantities of carbon monoxide can leak into a building. Many possible problems with combustion pollutants can be avoided by paying careful attention to proper operation and maintenance of appliances and ventilation systems. Furnaces should be checked at least once a year, before the heating season, to be sure that air intake is adequate and that the exhaust system is operating properly. Also, flues and chimneys should be checked for blockage by debris and for cracks that could allow fumes to enter the house.