ROYAL OAK - As the heating season begins, Consumers Energy urges customers to protect themselves against carbon monoxide (CO), a toxic gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless, and can be produced when home appliances are not operating or venting properly.

Gov. Jennifer Granholm has declared this week “Michigan Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Week.”

“Most carbon monoxide poisonings occur during the fall and winter heating season,” said Paul Preketes, senior vice president of gas operations for Consumers Energy. “One of the ways we provide value to our customers and Michigan residents is by sharing important information with them. Learning about carbon monoxide poisoning can help customers protect themselves and their families from this invisible killer,” said Preketes.

CO poisoning is caused by the incomplete combustion of fuels, including oil, propane, natural gas, coal, wood, kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel and charcoal. Deadly amounts of CO can be produced by defective or poorly-vented appliances such as furnaces, fireplaces and wood stoves, as well as generators and vehicles that use these fuels.

Symptoms of CO poisoning often resemble those of the flu and may include headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and stinging or burning of the eyes. Prolonged exposure can cause disorientation, convulsions, unconsciousness and death. More than 500 people nationwide die each year from accidental CO poisoning.

A good defense against CO problems is an audible CO alarm that meets or exceeds Underwriters Laboratory standards and will sound if dangerous levels of CO are present in a home or building. Underwriters Laboratory and manufacturers also recommend that any alarm be replaced when its warranty expires.

Another way to protect against CO poisoning is to make sure all fuel-burning appliances are properly installed and maintained. Furnaces should be cleaned and inspected periodically to be sure that animal nests or other debris do not interfere with proper ventilation.

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