Best carbon monoxide step: Detectors

Am I at risk in winter of carbon monoxide poisoning?

At least 430 people die each year in the United States from unintentional, non-fire-related carbon monoxide poisoning. This colorless and odorless gas comes from burning wood, automobile exhaust, generators, and gas appliances.

This deadly gas - also known as the "silent killer" - bonds to red blood cells that push out oxygen in your blood. Any exposure puts you at risk.

Depending on the level of exposure, carbon monoxide poisoning causes fatigue, confusion, chest pain, flulike symptoms, blurred vision, dizziness, and nausea. More serious levels of exposure lead to bright-red skin, unconsciousness, brain damage, and even death.

Have several carbon monoxide detectors in your home. They are the best prevention tool. Place one on every floor of your home, as well as near all gas appliances. Detectors should be certified by Underwriters Laboratories, which upholds safety standards.

To ensure your safety, have a hardwired detector and a battery-operated detector as a backup. Check your gas appliances at least once a year, but ideally several times a year. If you have a generator, keep it outside and away from your home to avoid the fumes. These simple preventative measures can help protect you from the deadly gas.

At any time of year, remember to warm up your car in the driveway, not in the garage, even if you open the garage door. This will reduce the chance of fumes entering the home.

If you believe you have been exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide, call 911 and, if possible, open windows and doors and exit the home.