Minimizing the Risk of Deadly Fumes

Every winter there are many unfortunate stories reported in the media about individuals and families who were killed or seriously injured by a little-known hazard in their own homes--carbon monoxide gas.

According to the American Medical Assn., carbon monoxide is a leading cause of poisoning in the United States, resulting in about 1,500 deaths and 10,000 illnesses each year.

Carbon monoxide is a gas that is both odorless and colorless. It is a byproduct of combustion of such fuels as natural gas, propane, gasoline, heating oil, coal and wood.

Carbon monoxide poisoning often occurs when undetectable exhaust fumes seep into the living areas of a home from a faulty furnace, water heater, chimney or other appliance.

To help minimize risk, the Southern California Gas Co. recommends that customers contact the company at least once yearly to arrange free safety checks of gas appliances.

Few people realize the importance of this checkup. Gas furnaces with cracked fireboxes or faulty heat exchangers, for example, may allow exhaust fumes to mix with room air. An inspection by a qualified technician or contractor can detect dangerous venting problems like these.

If there is a gas odor coming from an appliance or if there is a loose or cracked exhaust duct, the gas company says, gas should be shut off until a company technician or a licensed plumbing contractor does a safety check.

The company’s phone number is listed in the white pages under Southern California Gas Co. Be sure to specify that you want a safety check for proper venting of exhaust fumes.

Other recommendations for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning:

* Never use an unvented propane, kerosene or charcoal heater or stove-barbecue indoors.

* Have your chimney inspected for safe operation at least once yearly. If you smell smoke in the house during or after use, have the fireplace repaired by a licensed contractor before using it again.

* Never run an automobile or other gas-powered device inside a garage with the garage door shut. If you must run an engine for repair, open the main door and close the door leading to the house.

* Use carbon monoxide detectors. These devices look like smoke alarms and are mounted on walls near the center of a house. They are available at most hardware stores and home centers and are electric or battery-powered.

At least one alarm should be placed on each level of the home close to bedrooms and other areas that get a lot of use. Battery alarms are designed to be installed by the novice and have the obvious advantage of providing protection during power outages. Prices for either type range from $35 to $65 each.

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Gary Abrams is a general contractor who has written for The Times for 10 years.