FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 13, 2025

For More Information Contact:
Jon Cook
Fire Chief
660.665.3734

Helpful tips from the Kirksville Fire Department to stay safe against carbon monoxide

(Kirksville, MO) - Each year, November marks Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can cause poisoning when a fuel-burning appliance or machine isn’t working or vented properly. Breathing in high levels of carbon monoxide can be fatal.

The Kirksville Fire Department has compiled a few helpful tips to prevent those issues from happening in your home:

• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms in your home. They should be in a central location and outside each separate sleeping area, on each level of your home.
• Test those alarms at least once a month.
• Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris.
• Have fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys inspected by a professional each year before cold weather sets in.
• Do not run a vehicle or other fuel-powered engine indoors. If you need to start or warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it.
• Never heat your home with a gas oven or range.
• If using a portable generator, use it outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from all doors, windows and vents.

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