Winter Safety Tips from Avista

Dear Customer,
Carbon monoxide can live within your home without you even realizing it. CO is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that is produced by the incomplete burning of various fuels, including charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane, diesel fuel, coal, wood and natural gas. Because CO is undetectable to the human senses, it is important for people to know the signs of CO exposure.

Symptoms are similar to the flu and can include:

Headache
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Nausea
Dizziness

Protect yourself and your family. Consider installing carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. These devices monitor CO levels and alert you should the gas reach dangerous levels – they’re even a legal requirement in some states.
CO detectors are available at most home retail outlets. We recommend you only buy UL-listed models and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and operation.

Here are some safety tips to get you started:

Do:
Install at least one detector in a hallway near your sleeping area.
Service your water heater and any gas, oil, wood or coal-burning heaters regularly.

Don’t:
Use portable generators, barbeques and charcoal grills indoors.
If you suspect you have been exposed to CO in your home, get to fresh air immediately and call for medical assistance from a safe place. Call 911,

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