Chicago, IL – With cold weather returning across Illinois, fire officials are urging residents to inspect and test their carbon monoxide alarms as heating systems power back on. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) calls carbon monoxide the “invisible killer” — an odorless, colorless gas that can quickly become deadly when fuel-burning appliances malfunction or are improperly vented.
According to the NFPA, carbon monoxide (CO) is created when fuels like gasoline, wood, natural gas, propane, oil, or coal burn incompletely. The association advises placing CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Interconnected alarms provide the best protection, ensuring all devices sound simultaneously in an emergency.
Officials recommend testing alarms monthly, replacing batteries when low, and replacing units entirely according to manufacturer guidance. If an alarm sounds, move everyone to fresh air immediately and call emergency services.
Fire departments also stress the importance of yearly inspections for furnaces, fireplaces, and chimneys before cold weather sets in. Generators, charcoal grills, and other fuel-burning equipment should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas.
The NFPA reports that U.S. fire departments respond to over 80,000 non-fire CO incidents each year — an average of nine calls per hour. Even small amounts of carbon monoxide exposure can be dangerous over time.
Residents are urged to take precautions now to stay safe through the winter heating season.
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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