We're entering into the last few weeks of winter, but that doesn’t mean that the cold weather will magically go away. So, in the meantime, the Van Buren Township Fire Department asks that you stay vigilant when it comes to monitoring alarm systems (carbon monoxide and smoke detectors), and possible home heating dangers.


Carbon Monoxide Alarms

• CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and mounting height.
• Test CO alarms at least once a month, and replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• If the CO alarm sounds, immediately exit the home to a fresh air location outdoors. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call 911 from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel.


Symptoms of CO poisoning

Carbon monoxide enters the body through breathing. CO poisoning can be confused with flu symptoms, food poisoning and other illnesses. Some symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness or headaches. High levels of CO can be fatal, causing death within minutes.

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet (one meter) away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater. Have a three-foot (one meter) “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.