NIPSCO reminds customers of home heating safety

Furnace inspections, carbon monoxide detectors help keep homes safe, warm

MERRILLVILLE - With colder temperatures settling in, Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) reminds customers of the importance of maintaining a safe home heating system.

An annual inspection is essential for every home’s furnace to ensure that it is working efficiently and to help protect dwellers from safety concerns, such as carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless, non-corrosive gas and a by-product of the combustion of fuels such as coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas and fuel oil. It can be emitted by furnaces, space heaters, stoves, fireplaces, water heaters and automobile exhaust. CO can be poisonous if allowed to accumulate in enclosed spaces.

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are flu-like, including headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. At high levels, it can cause loss of consciousness and death. If you think you are suffering from CO poisoning, you should get fresh air immediately and call 911. 

 

Take action to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning: 

  • Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home, making sure it’s clear of furniture or draperies. Test the battery regularly. 
  • Do not use ovens, gas ranges or grills to heat your home. 
  • Never use a generator inside your home, basement, garage or other enclosed or partially enclosed area. 
  • Never leave a car or lawn mower engine running in a shed, garage or in any enclosed space. 

For more important safety tips, visit www.NIPSCO.com/StaySafe

Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) has served the energy needs of northern Indiana since 1912. Headquartered in Merrillville, Ind., NIPSCO is one of the seven energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc (NYSE: NI). With more than 821,000 natural gas customers and 468,000 electric customers, NIPSCO is the largest natural gas distribution company, and the second largest electric distribution company, in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve 3.8 million natural gas and electric customers primarily in seven states. More information about NIPSCO is available at NIPSCO.com.