Q. I was devastated to read about the Massachusetts family that died from carbon monoxide poisoning. It made me think about the safety of my parents’ place. What can I do to help them prevent household dangers like this? That story was truly heartbreaking. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a silent, often deadly threat that can easily go unnoticed in the home. It’s essential to understand the risks and take preventative measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are some tips to prevent CO poisoning and other similar household dangers.

• Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors. Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, making it undetectable without a proper detector. Install CO detectors on each level of your home, particularly near sleeping areas, and test them regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly. Replace batteries twice a year or consider models that last up to seven years.
• Regularly Maintain Heating Systems and Appliances. Gas-burning appliances, furnaces, and water heaters are common sources of CO. Schedule annual professional inspections and cleaning to ensure they’re operating safely. Never block vents or chimneys, as this can cause dangerous buildup of CO.
• Avoid Using Gas Appliances for Heating. Never use gas stoves, ovens, or grills to heat your home. These appliances are not designed for prolonged heating and can quickly release hazardous CO. Always ensure your home is properly ventilated when using them.
• Keep Generators and Grills Outdoors. Portable generators, charcoal grills, and other fuel-burning devices should always be used outdoors, away from windows, doors, and vents. Carbon monoxide can build up quickly in enclosed spaces, even if the equipment is just a few feet from an entry point.
• Ventilate Your Home Properly. Ensure that areas where appliances burn fuel, like the kitchen and garage, are well-ventilated. Open windows and use exhaust fans when needed to disperse fumes.

By taking these simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and other household hazards and keep your loved ones safe.

Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.

Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.

Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves Andover, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover.