MANHATTAN, Kan. – Like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors can save lives. The detectors can be purchased for as little as $40, yet often are overlooked until a tragedy serves as a reminder that the colorless, odorless gas can de deadly – even in spring and summer months, said Marilyn Bode, Kansas State University Research and Extension housing specialist.

Carbon monoxide results from incomplete combustion. Most people are aware of the possibility of carbon monoxide being produced by gas furnaces; gas water heaters; gas or kerosene space heaters; and fireplaces and woodburning stoves.

During the spring and summer months, all are advised to be aware of additional sources of carbon monoxide: gas ranges; gas dryers and refrigerators; and charcoal or gas grills. Running a lawnmower or other small engine in a garage or other poorly ventilated area (like a workshop) can be dangerous as well.

As carbon monoxide is breathed, it replaces oxygen in the blood. Breathing it can cause a variety of flu-like symptoms, such as a headache; nausea; dizziness; fatigue or sleepiness. The gas also can cause disorientation, a loss of consciousness, and death, Bode said.

To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home, the housing specialist offers these tips:

* Service appliances regularly. For example, gas furnaces and water heaters should be inspected by a service contractor at least once a year to make sure that the gas burner is operating correctly, and that the heat exchanger and chimney are in good condition. Regular maintenance is recommended. A furnace that runs excessively; soot deposit in the home, and/or condensation on windows can, however, signal trouble that should be checked.

* Vent a gas range hood to the outside; use the hood fan when using the gas range. With a gas range, observe the color of the burner flame. If the flame is not blue, ask a service technician to check the burner. A gas range also should not be used to take the chill out of the air or heat the house.

* Vent a gas or electric clothes dryer outside the house, and check vents periodically to make sure that they remain free of lint or other debris.

* Clean and inspect chimneys regularly; open the damper before using a fireplace or wood- burning stove.

* Reserve non-electric space heaters for emergency use. If such a heater is in use, open windows and doors for ventilation. Do not use non-electric space heaters while sleeping and/or in a garage or basement where a lack of ventilation can be problematic.

* Do not leave the car or other gas engine, like a lawnmower, running in the garage.

"Opening garage doors may not be enough to protect residents, particularly if heating ducts or air returns run through the garage," Bode said.

* Keep lighted charcoal and gas grills, which can produce significant amounts of carbon monoxide, out of the garage or other enclosed area, like a porch or partial patio.

* Install one or more carbon monoxide detectors in the sleeping area of the home. If only one detector is purchased, place it in a location where the alarm will be heard in all of the bedrooms. Carbon monoxide detectors also should be installed in campers and boats where gas appliances are used.

"Battery operated and/or 110-volt AC (hard-wired and/or plug-in) detectors are available. If frequent power outages are a problem, a battery-operated or unit with a battery backup, is recommended," Bode said.

Bode also advises consumers to look for a product label carrying UL2034-98, which is an indication that the detector meets 1998 UL standards; or IAS-6-96, a standard used in both the U.S. and Canada (International Approval Service). Carbon monoxide detectors usually are available at hardware and department stores.

If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected:

* Turn off heating and combustion appliances;

* Open doors and windows for ventilation;

* Leave the building; and

* Seek medical assistance.

While pregnant women; infants and children; the elderly; people with heart disease, and smokers are thought to have a greater risk, everyone can be at risk.

To identify the source of the carbon monoxide, call the heating contractor, appliance service technician, gas company or fire department, Bode said.

For more information on safety in the home, contact the local K-State Research and Extension office or visit the K-State Research and Extension website at http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ . Click on "Browse by Subject;" choose housing.