Last spring, I had a typical morning: I dropped my kids off at school, just like any other day. I can’t recall the exact time or the weather, but I returned home around 9:10 a.m., closed the garage, activated the alarm, and proceeded with my day, likely doing laundry and catching up on appointments.
It wasn’t until around 4:15 p.m., when I headed back to the garage to pick up my kids, that I realized my car had been running for seven hours in an enclosed space—right under my bedroom. The firefighters who responded to my emergency call didn’t need to say much; their expressions conveyed the gravity of the situation. I was fortunate to have escaped what could have been a tragic outcome.
I often reflect on that day and the events leading up to it. Why was my car still running? Had I been distracted on a call? Did I accidentally activate the remote start? Regardless of the reason, either scenario could have resulted in dire consequences.
Many are unaware that leaving a vehicle running in an attached garage—regardless of whether the door is open—can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide (CO). This colorless, odorless gas can seep into your home and is responsible for approximately 400 fatalities annually in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
To safeguard yourself and your family, consider the following precautions:
- Never leave a car running in an attached garage: Even with the door open, carbon monoxide can accumulate quickly. Be especially cautious when shoveling snow around your vehicle, as it can block the exhaust and increase CO levels inside the car.
- Ventilate your vehicle: If your car has a tailgate, ensure that the vents or windows are open when the tailgate is in use to promote airflow and prevent CO from entering the vehicle.
- Avoid using gasoline-powered tools indoors: Never operate generators, lawnmowers, or similar tools in enclosed spaces. This can lead to hazardous CO levels.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector: If it activates, exit the premises immediately and contact emergency services. If you experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, seek medical attention without delay.
For further information on carbon monoxide, you can refer to the EPA and the CDC.
In summary, taking simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home. Ensure your car is turned off when parked in an attached garage, ventilate properly, and install detectors to protect your family from this silent threat.
Keyphrase: carbon monoxide safety
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