·         Having your fuel-burning appliances -- including oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves -- inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every heating season. Make certain that the flues and chimneys are connected, in good condition, and not blocked.

·         Choosing appliances that vent their fumes to the outside, have them properly installed and maintained according to manufacturers' instructions. Consider installing and useing an exhaust fan vented to outdoors over gas stoves.

·        Read and follow all of the instructions that accompany any fuel-burning device. If you cannot avoid using an unvented gas or kerosene space heater, carefully follow the cautions that come with the device. Use the proper fuel and keep doors to the rest of the house open. Crack a window to ensure enough air for ventilation and proper fuel-burning.

·         Remember to open the flue when fireplaces are in use.

·         Choose properly sized wood stoves that meet EPA emission standards. Make certain that doors on all wood stoves fit tightly.

·         NEVER idle the car in a garage -- even if the garage door to the outside is open. Fumes can build up very quickly in the garage and living area of your home.

·         DON'T use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.

·         DON'T ever use a charcoal grill indoors -- even in a fireplace.

·         DON'T sleep in any room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.

·         DON'T use any gasoline-powered engines (mowers, weed trimmers, snow blowers, chain saws, small engines or generators) in enclosed spaces.

·         DON'T ignore symptoms, particularly if more than one person is feeling them. You could lose consciousness and die if you do nothing.