BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – November is Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) and to encourage North Dakotans to take steps to protect their families from this invisible threat.

Carbon monoxide, often called the “silent killer,” is an odorless, colorless gas produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, wood, and oil burn incompletely. The risk of CO poisoning increases during colder months as heating systems, including furnaces and fireplaces, are used more frequently. In 2023, North Dakota fire departments responded to 277 CO-related incidents with no injuries or fatalities reported.

State Fire Marshal Doug Nelson emphasized the importance of prevention, stating that CO poisoning is a preventable tragedy. Maintaining heating systems, installing CO detectors, and recognizing the signs of CO poisoning are essential steps to prevent accidents.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal recommends installing carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of a home, particularly near sleeping areas, and testing them monthly. Heating systems, water heaters, and other fuel-burning appliances should be inspected annually by qualified technicians. Running vehicles, generators, or other fuel-burning engines in enclosed spaces, even with doors open, is strongly discouraged.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion, can resemble the flu, potentially delaying necessary action. If exposure is suspected, residents should leave the building immediately, seek fresh air, and contact emergency services.

For more information about carbon monoxide safety, residents are encouraged to contact their local fire department or the Office of the State Fire Marshal.