Why Carbon Monoxide Alarms Are Essential for Home and Business Safety - The Dangers of CO in Winter Months
When we think about winter fire safety, smoke alarms often come to mind first, but there’s another invisible threat that every household and business should be aware of: carbon monoxide (CO).
Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer for a reason. It’s a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that can quickly build up indoors without any warning. And during the winter months, when we use heaters, fireplaces, and gas appliances more frequently, the risk of carbon monoxide exposure increases significantly.
At Fireco, we’re here to help protect your people and property with reliable carbon monoxide alarms and expert safety advice.
What Is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels like gas, wood, coal, or oil don’t burn completely. Common household and workplace sources include:
- Gas heaters and fireplaces
- Wood burners and open fires
- Gas ovens and cooktops
- Portable gas or diesel-powered appliances
- Blocked chimneys or flues
Because you can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, it can build up without you knowing, especially in closed or poorly ventilated spaces.
Why Are Carbon Monoxide Alarms Important?
A carbon monoxide alarm is the only reliable way to detect dangerous CO levels in your home, workplace, or rental property. These alarms are designed to alert you before levels become life-threatening, giving you time to ventilate the area, shut off the source, and get to safety.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or confusion
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Loss of consciousness in severe cases
If multiple people experience symptoms at the same time – especially when inside – it could be a warning sign of a carbon monoxide buildup.
Why Winter Is High-Risk
Carbon monoxide risk goes up during winter because:
- We’re more likely to close windows and doors, reducing ventilation and fresh air intake.
- We use our gas heaters, wood burners, and fireplaces much more frequently.
- Flues, chimneys, and vents may become blocked or damaged over time, while still being used.
Even modern, well-maintained appliances can become dangerous without proper ventilation or if something goes wrong.
How to Stay Safe from Carbon Monoxide
- Install a certified carbon monoxide alarm near bedrooms and living areas, and in any space with fuel-burning appliances.
- Have your heaters, flues, and chimneys serviced regularly by qualified professionals.
- Never use outdoor gas appliances (like BBQs or camp stoves) indoors, in garages, sheds, or other kinds of enclosed spaces.
- Ensure proper ventilation in any area where fuel is being burned.
- Ventilate! Fresh air is key, even in the cooler months.
At Fireco, we supply and install trusted, high-quality carbon monoxide alarms throughout Whangārei, Kaipara, and the Far North. Whether it’s for your home, rental property, workplace, or commercial premises, we can help you choose the right alarm and placement to stay safe this winter.
Protect What Matters This Winter with Fireco
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Carbon monoxide alarms are affordable, easy to install, and could save lives.
Find more product information here, and secure your CO alarm this winter.
