Md. State Fire Marshal offers tips on keeping family safe from carbon monoxide poisoning

Although a cause of death has not been released, after a family of eight was found dead inside of a Princess Anne home, there is speculation that it was carbon monoxide poisoning, after a generator was found inside the home.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office released a statement about how to avoid being a victim, of the colorless, tasteless, and potentially toxic gas.

Officials say homes that use liquid-fueled space heaters, an attached garage, gas appliances, oil heat, electric generators, wood stoves and/or fireplaces, should have a carbon monoxide detectors installed, with the best place being in a hallway, just outside bedrooms.

The Fire Marshal also offers the following tips:
· Never let your car idle in the garage.
· Never use a gas range, oven, or clothes dryer for heating.
· Scheduling preventive maintenance inspections for your fuel fired appliances.
· Make sure chimneys and flues are inspected and cleaned each year and remain in good condition.
· Never run a generator inside or near an entrance (door, window, vent, etc.) to your home.
· Portable generators should be placed outside away from occupied buildings.
· Install and maintain working smoke alarms and CO detectors.

“Everyone is asked to assume responsibility and take the initiative to protect themselves, their families and friends from the potentially lethal affects caused by carbon monoxide poisoning,” stated the State Fire Marshal.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning apparently present similar to the flu, with headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and irritability. Heavy concentrations can reportedly cause vomiting, loss of consciousness, and even death. Carbon monoxide poisoning can apparently occur in small amounts over a long period of time, along with in large amounts in a short period of time.