It kills about 500 Americans each year. Trying to sleep off the symptoms may seem like a good idea, but it isn't. A majority of carbon monoxide deaths occur during sleep, she said. Having the furnace checked annually by a qualified service technician can reduce risks substantially. Water heaters, clothes dryers and other gas appliances, like a gas fireplace, also should be checked regularly by an appliance specialist.
Wood burning fireplaces and stoves also produce large amounts of carbon monoxide.
Kitchen appliances should be checked periodically. If space heaters are used during emergencies, doors and windows should be opened to provide needed ventilation. Charcoal and gas grills should not be used on an enclosed porch or in a garage. Warming up the car on a cold winter morning can be hazardous, too. Before letting the car run to warm it up, back it out onto the driveway.