There are some very simple ways to ensure that you and your family will not suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning. Having a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home is the most effective way to keep a watch on the levels of CO in your home. Other precautions that can be taken are listed below.

• Have a certified chimney contractor inspect your masonry chimney for moisture stains, cracks, white chalky deposits, loose mortar, or blockage yearly.
• At the beginning of every heating season have a qualified service technician inspect all fuel burning appliances such as oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves yearly.
• Install and maintain appliances according to the manufacturers' instructions and specifications.
• Always remember to back your car out of the garage, to let it warm up. Never let it idle in the garage, especially if the garage is attached to the house; fumes can build up quickly and contaminate the air in the garage and living area of your home.
• Keep the area around the furnace and water heater clear so that the air supply to the appliance is not blocked off. Also consult a qualified contractor before making any changes to enclose or partition off your combustion appliances.
• Do not use any gasoline-powered engines such as mowers, weed trimmers, snow blowers, chain saws, small engines or generators in enclosed spaces.