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Homepage Natural gas safety Natural gas safety Carbon monoxide safety

Carbon monoxide safety

Carbon monoxide alarm mounted on a white wall. The meter reads as zero.

Natural gas is a clean, reliable energy source used throughout our community, but improper burning or gas leaks pose serious safety risks. 

What is the difference between natural gas and carbon monoxide?

  • Natural gas is the energy fuel supplied through underground pipes that power your appliances. It is flammable and can pose an explosion risk if it leaks into an enclosed area. 
  • Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and poisonous byproduct created when fuels (like natural gas, propane, wood, or gasoline) burn incompletely due to poor airflow, damaged appliances or blocked vents. The only way to detect CO in your home is with working CO alarms.

Symptoms of CO poisoning

Physical symptoms of CO poisoning vary, depending on the amount of carbon monoxide absorbed into the bloodstream.

 

Mild exposure

  • Slight headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue

Medium exposure

  • Severe headache
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Rapid heart rate

Severe exposure

  • Unconsciousness
  • Convulsions
  • Cardiac/respiratory failure
  • Death

If you suspect CO in your home or business

  • Leave the premises and get fresh air immediately.
  • Call 911 or call us at (719) 448-4800.
  • If experiencing flu-like symptoms of CO poisoning, seek medical attention.
  • Contact a licensed heating contractor for an emergency inspection.
  • Do not return to your home or business until the source of the CO has been identified and the problem corrected.

How do I reduce the risk of CO poisoning?

You can prevent CO poisoning through proper appliance installation, maintenance and use. Follow these steps to protect you and your family.

  • Install a CO alarm on every floor of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
    • When purchasing a CO alarm, be sure it conforms to Underwriters Laboratories standard (UL) 2034 or is American Gas Association certified.
    • Follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions.
    • Be sure there’s a test button to verify that the detector is working.
  • Have a qualified professional inspect your heating and cooling equipment annually. The contractor should check appliance vents for corrosion and blockage. The appliance itself should be checked for cleanliness, proper adjustment and approved connectors.
  • After hailstorms, have a qualified contractor check your vent cap for damage. Failure to inspect appliance vent caps can cause appliances to vent improperly, leading to carbon monoxide readings inside your home. Also, check your electric and gas meters for damage.
  • Never operate a vehicle, lawn mower, snow blower or other fuel-burning equipment in an attached garage, even with the door open.
  • Do not use your gas range or oven for heat. Never burn charcoal indoors.
  • Make sure your clothes dryer is properly vented and free of lint.
  • Keep a window slightly open while using your fireplace. This lets in fresh air and helps stop dangerous gases from building up inside.

If you suspect your carbon monoxide alarm is not working properly (e.g., chirping), check for low batteries. If the battery is low, replace it. If it still sounds, call the fire department.

Colorado Springs Utilities 

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