MILWAUKEE — Carbon monoxide exposure is a risk all year. However, winter weather can bring some additional risk factors not seen during other seasons. 

There have been several examples of carbon monoxide exposure, and even deaths, in recent days across Wisconsin. According to the Greenfield Fire Department, two people were found dead Wednesday after elevated carbon monoxide levels were found inside a single family home. According to the fire department, the home did not have working carbon monoxide detectors. 

While it is unclear what caused the carbon monoxide leak in Greenfield, Wis., winter weather can play a role in many incidents. That is one reason why fire departments across Wisconsin work to raise awareness of carbon monoxide risks. 

Lieutenant Carlos Velazquez-Sanchez with the Milwaukee Fire Department works to educate the public about fire and carbon monoxide safety. Velazquez-Sanchez said that carbon monoxide leaks are often preventable. Since they’re preventable, he said it is difficult whenever someone dies or is injured due to a leak. 

“When we hear situations where people get hurt, or even worse, in situations like these ones that can be prevented, it is very hard for us. We take it very personal,” said Velazquez-Sanchez. 

Velazquez-Sanchez said having a working carbon monoxide detector is very important.

He said having at least one in your home is vital, but having one on every level is preferred.

In addition, he said knowing the risks that come in winter is important. Vents that run outside houses and residential buildings from furnaces, clothes dryers or other appliances can be a major source of carbon monoxide exposure if they get blocked by snow, ice or other debris.

With recent snowfall around the state, Velazquez-Sanchez said it is very important to make sure you clear vents regularly. 

“You have these vents for a reason,” said Velazquez-Sanchez. “If they are covered by snow or anything else, that doesn’t allow these gasses to go out, and they are going to back up and go back inside the home.” 

During power outages, many people use home generators to heat and power their houses. Velazquez-Sanchez said when running, they should be kept outside.

“We have to understand a lot of these portable generators are also creating carbon monoxide, so if you are using these portable generators, you have to make sure you leave them outside the house in a ventilated area not near vents that are taking air into the home,” said Velazquez-Sanchez. 

Velazquez-Sanchez said it is important to make sure furnaces, water heaters and other HVAC equipment are inspected and tuned up regularly, which will keep them in good working order. He also cautioned against heating your home by using a stove, because of an increased carbon monoxide and fire risk. 

To learn more about carbon monoxide exposure prevention, visit this tip sheet from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.