December 28, 2010 2:00 AM

As winter takes hold of the Seacoast, we appreciate Rye Fire Chief William Sullivan reminding residents to take measures to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. the gas is produced when we burn fuel to heat our homes. all fuels produce CO during combustion.

Sullivan issued his reminder this week after a close call in Rye, where a CO detector may have saved a family from serious illness or death, and another case in Newburyport, Mass., where a father carried his children out of a CO-poisoned house that had levels 17 times higher than the threshold of concern.

The Centers for Disease Control lists symptoms of CO poisoning as headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. “CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms mimic other illnesses,” the CDC writes. “People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before ever experiencing a symptom.”

Avoid CO poisoning by making sure all heating equipment is in proper working order and properly vented. Homes should have CO detectors, which are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Place a detector on each floor of a home and between living and sleeping spaces. he also recommends inspecting heating systems each season.

Don’t be shy about calling for help if you think you have a CO problem. “At the first hint of any problems, dial 911 and get the Fire Department to respond,” Sullivan said.

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