SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Sacramento Fire Department is urging people to take precautions against carbon monoxide; a colorless, odorless gas that can build up in homes without warning.
Officials say they’ve responded to an increasing number of carbon monoxide calls as temperatures drop and heaters are turned on for the season.
In Oak Park, firefighters recently responded to a tenant's report of elevated carbon monoxide levels. The tenant noticed his carbon monoxide monitor going off inside the home and called for help.
Captain Justin Sylvia emphasized the importance of acting quickly when carbon monoxide is detected.
“Just get out of the house. Call us. We’ll come in, we’ll assess the situation. Carbon monoxide is nothing to play around with,” Sylvia said.
Carbon monoxide exposure is particularly dangerous in winter, when people may unknowingly create hazardous conditions by using heaters or bringing equipment like portable generators indoors.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), accidental carbon monoxide poisoning claims hundreds of lives annually. In 2022, over 600 people died from the gas, while an estimated 100,000 individuals sought emergency care for exposure-related symptoms.
In April, three people — a woman and two children — were hospitalized in critical condition after carbon monoxide exposure at a south Sacramento apartment complex. Firefighters discovered a portable generator running in the living room.
Carbon monoxide alarms are widely available at hardware stores and often include added safety features like battery backups and end-of-life warnings. Fire officials stress the importance of installing alarms near sleeping areas and testing them regularly.
If a carbon monoxide alarm goes off in your home, experts advise evacuating immediately and calling the fire department.
The Sacramento Fire Department recommends checking your alarm’s batteries when you change your clocks each spring and fall to ensure they are functioning properly. A small investment in prevention can make a life-saving difference.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a hazard you can’t see, smell, or taste — earning its reputation as a silent killer.
