Prevent & detect CO in your home
Furnaces and other natural gas appliances
Have your furnace and other natural gas appliances (such as your hot water heater, natural gas stove, etc.) checked regularly by a qualified technician, according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Check your filter monthly. For a disposable filter, be sure to replace it when it's dirty. You may also have a permanent filter that requires regular cleaning.
Check your furnace flame monthly. You should see a clear blue flame. Call a qualified technician if you see a yellow flame.
Never plug or cover vents designed to supply air to your gas appliances.
Keep the area around your furnace free of clutter.
Keep your furnace's panels and grills in place.
Do only the maintenance you are comfortable with. For anything else, call a qualified technician.
In a garage
Never idle a vehicle in a garage, even with the door open.
Make sure that your garage is properly ventilated.
Maintain your garage heater according to manufacturer's instructions.
Wood-burning fireplace
Always have an adequate fresh air supply before you start a wood fire.
Open a nearby window if your fireplace does not have its own air intake.
Always keep chimneys and vents clear and clean.
Around the home
Never run exhaust fans, power attic vents or central vacuum systems for a long time.
Never use a charcoal barbecue or portable gas grill inside.
Check your indoor and outdoor vents monthly, looking for rust, soot buildup, cracks or blockages. If you see any, call a qualified technician.
Detection - CO alarm
Install at least one carbon monoxide alarm in your home. One alarm per floor is recommended. If you only have one, place it near bedrooms.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing and maintaining your alarm.
Write its expiry date on it with a marker so you know when to replace it.
Vacuum it monthly. Replace battery annually, if applicable.