NASHVILLE – In honor of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Day on September 18 each year, the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (“TDCI”) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (“SFMO”) are sharing carbon monoxide safety messages to help save lives from the “silent killer.”  

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when natural fuels used in household items such as heaters or gas-powered generators burn incompletely. In the home, barbecue grills, fireplaces, and fuel-powered heaters are potential CO sources. Outdoors, generators are used by campers and RV owners during recreation activities. After severe weather, generators are also frequently used to provide power if a home or business’s electrical system or power supply has been damaged or destroyed.

Breathing high levels of carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness or even death. Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and confusion. Many of these symptoms are similar to common colds or seasonal flu. 

“Exposure to carbon monoxide can pose a serious health hazard to anyone, no matter the person or the level of exposure,” said TDCI Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Carter Lawrence. “On Carbon Monoxide Awareness Day, I remind Tennesseans to renew their commitment to home safety by being aware of the risks that are posed by carbon monoxide and by testing their carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly.” 

Carbon Monoxide Awareness Day was first recognized in 2015 when the Tennessee General Assembly approved legislation that declared September 18 of each calendar year as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Day in Tennessee.

The designation was made in honor of five friends who died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning on September 18, 2011, in Clarksville. Jon and Kathryn Over, Jim Wall, Tim Stone, and Allison Bagwell-Wyatt lost their lives at a children's charity fundraiser when carbon monoxide fumes seeped into their rented RV from a generator. The RV’s carbon monoxide detector, which could have prevented the tragedy, was later discovered to have no batteries.

Christine Watson, who lost her daughter and son-in-law to the tragedy on September 18, 2011, worked with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to create a powerful testimonial warning others about the dangers of carbon monoxide.

When using any fuel-burning equipment that might create CO, Tennesseans can avoid sickness by remembering the following tips:

·         Never use a gas generator inside your home, garage, carport basement, crawlspace, or outside near a window, door, or vent. A generator should only be used outdoors and at least 15 feet away from buildings. It is dangerous to use a gas or kerosene heater inside a home or other building.

·         Never use a gas range or gas oven to heat your home. Do not use a gas or charcoal grill indoors, and do not burn charcoal in your fireplace.

·         Do not run a vehicle or other fueled engines or motors indoors, even if garage doors are open.

·         Do not use fuel-powered equipment in a garage or enclosed area.

·         Have fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys inspected by a professional every year before cold weather sets in.

·         When using a fireplace, ensure the flue is open for adequate ventilation.

·         If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, immediately turn off possible sources of the gas.

·         Carbon monoxide detectors are important in protecting against poisoning by providing an early warning. These are widely available at home and hardware stores.

·         Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home or RV. For the best protection, interconnect all carbon monoxide alarms so that when one sounds, they all sound. Choose an alarm that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.

·         If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door, and account for everyone inside the structure. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel arrive.