MAYVILLE – As the colder weather approaches, that means it’s time to think about keeping warm.

Chautauqua County officials are warning county residents to be aware of carbon monoxide (CO) and fire risks, with the Chautauqua County’s Emergency Services, Office for Aging Services, and Health departments sharing tips on how residents can protect themselves and their families this fall and winter season.

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

Carbon monoxide is a gas that can’t be seen and is odorless. It is found in fumes produced any time fuel is burned in cars or trucks, small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges or furnaces. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning not linked to fires, more than 100,000 people visit the emergency room, and more than 14,000 are hospitalized.

“Many people experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning will have symptoms including headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Symptoms are often described as flu-like,” said Dr. Michael Faulk, county chief medical officer. “Running a generator inside is absolutely not recommended. Not having properly functioning carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in your home is a risk that’s just not worth taking.”

HOUSE FIRE SAFETY

The American Red Cross indicates home fires are the nation’s most frequent disaster. Most people don’t realize they have just two minutes to escape a home fire. On average, seven people die and more than 30 people suffer injuries from home fires every day.

“House fires are extremely dangerous and can lead to the unfortunate loss of loved ones, pets, and can cause tens of thousands of dollars in property damage. The minimal cost of installing a carbon monoxide and smoke detector is money well spent,” said Noel Guttman, Chautauqua County emergency services director. “I urge everyone to learn how to decrease the likelihood of having to experience a fire in your home.”

That includes:

– Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Be sure to install both carbon monoxide and smoke detectors where people sleep and in other main spots at home. Replace batteries in battery-operated devices twice a year, like when clocks are changed in the spring and fall.

– Create a fire escape plan. Escape plans help families get out of a home quickly. Develop and practice a home fire escape plan twice each year with the entire family.

– Know where fire extinguishers are and check to make sure they haven’t expired and are working properly.

– Keep lighters and matches out of reach of children and teach children not to play with them.

– Keep things ventilated. Make sure gas appliances have good airflow. Vent pipes should tilt upwards so carbon monoxide can escape.

– Schedule regular maintenance for fuel burning appliances. Have a pro look at a home’s heating system and other fuel-burning appliances once a year to make sure they’re safe.

– Inspect chimneys and clean them every year to prevent carbon monoxide or other build up from getting trapped inside.

– Don’t use gas stoves or ovens to heat a home. They can make carbon monoxide build up and are a fire risk.

– Keep generators outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and always use a carbon monoxide detector.

Older adults are at increased risk of dying during a fire or carbon monoxide emergency. Having physical or mental impairments, using medicines and alcohol, and living with smokers or in substandard housing are some risk factors that make older adults more vulnerable.

“I encourage residents to help older family members and loved ones by checking their carbon monoxide and smoke detectors regularly to make sure they are working properly and make sure loved ones have a plan in place to keep them safe in the event of an emergency,” said Dana Corwin, county Office for Aging Services interim director. “Contact the building manager or fire department to discuss plans if extra assistance is needed to evacuate.”

The Red Cross of Western New York offers free smoke detectors to all Chautauqua County residents. To receive a free detector visit www.redcross.org/local/new-york/western-new-york/about-us/our-work/home-fire-campaign.html or call 716-664-5115.