El Paso County, CO – As colder temperatures continue across southern Colorado, local officials are reminding residents to use only approved heating systems to avoid serious safety risks inside their homes.
According to El Paso County emergency management officials, using ovens, stoves, or outdoor grills to heat indoor spaces can significantly increase the risk of house fires and dangerous carbon monoxide exposure. The warning comes as more households rely on supplemental heating during winter cold snaps.
County officials stress that carbon monoxide is especially dangerous because it is odorless and invisible, making it difficult for residents to detect without proper alarms. Even brief exposure can cause serious illness, while prolonged exposure may be fatal.
The alert encourages residents to ensure all heating systems are approved for indoor use and properly maintained. Space heaters should be kept away from flammable materials, placed on stable surfaces, and turned off when unattended. Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves should be used according to manufacturer and safety guidelines.
Officials also recommend installing and regularly testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms throughout the home, particularly near sleeping areas. Residents are urged to never block ventilation and to avoid running fuel-burning devices indoors unless specifically designed for that purpose.
As part of broader winter preparedness efforts, residents are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for Peak Alerts, the region’s emergency notification system, which provides real-time updates on weather, safety concerns, and local emergencies.
More information on safe heating practices and emergency preparedness is available through the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management at pproem.com.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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