Oregon Fire Officials Warn of Increased Carbon Monoxide Risk During Colder Months

SALEM, Ore. - As temperatures drop and Oregonians begin relying more heavily on their heating systems, state fire officials are reminding residents about a potentially deadly danger that can go unnoticed inside the home.

November is Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, and the Oregon State Fire Marshal is encouraging residents to check their heating equipment, test carbon monoxide alarms, and take precautions to prevent exposure to the odorless, colorless gas.

According to the agency, 62% of carbon monoxide-related emergencies in Oregon occur during the fall and winter months. Of those incidents, 26% happen in the fall and 36% occur during winter, when furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and other fuel-burning appliances are used more frequently.

In 2025, Oregon fire agencies reported responding to 417 carbon monoxide-related calls statewide, based on reports submitted by 83% of the state's more than 300 fire agencies.

Data from the Oregon Health Authority show that carbon monoxide poisoning causes an average of 18 deaths and nearly 41 hospitalizations or emergency room visits in Oregon each year.

"Carbon monoxide gives no warning; you cannot see it, smell it, or taste it," State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. "As we enter peak heating season, taking a few minutes to inspect fuel-burning appliances and test your carbon monoxide alarms can mean the difference between life and death."

Why Carbon Monoxide Is More Dangerous During Cold Weather

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, wood, heating oil, kerosene, or gasoline do not burn completely.

The gas can build up inside homes and other enclosed spaces, particularly when heating equipment is malfunctioning or fuel-burning devices are used without proper ventilation.

Fire officials say several common activities can increase the risk of exposure during colder months.

Furnaces, fireplaces, and wood or pellet stoves that have not been properly maintained can allow carbon monoxide to enter living spaces. Portable generators and other gasoline-powered equipment can also produce dangerous amounts of the gas if operated indoors or too close to a building.

Another concern is warming up vehicles inside garages. Even when a garage door is open, running an engine inside an attached garage can allow carbon monoxide to enter the home.

Symptoms Can Be Mistaken for the Flu

One of the challenges with carbon monoxide poisoning is recognizing the symptoms before exposure becomes severe.

Early symptoms can resemble the flu, often without a fever. Common warning signs include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Weakness or unusual fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach
• Chest pain
• Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly

As exposure continues, carbon monoxide can affect a person's ability to think and make decisions, potentially preventing them from recognizing the danger or escaping without help.

If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds or poisoning is suspected, residents should immediately move outside to fresh air and call 911. They should not reenter the building until emergency responders determine it is safe.

Simple Steps Can Help Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The Oregon State Fire Marshal recommends several precautions to help keep households safe as the heating season begins.

• Check carbon monoxide alarms. Make sure working alarms are installed in the appropriate locations throughout the home, particularly near sleeping areas.
• Test alarms monthly. Use the test button to confirm alarms are functioning and replace batteries or alarm units according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Inspect heating equipment. Have furnaces, fireplaces, chimneys, and other fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a qualified professional.
• Keep generators outside. Portable generators should be operated outdoors, at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents.
• Never use outdoor cooking equipment indoors. Charcoal grills and other outdoor fuel-burning devices can produce deadly carbon monoxide levels in enclosed spaces.
• Avoid running vehicles in garages. Never leave a vehicle running inside an attached garage, even with the garage door open.

Oregon law also includes carbon monoxide alarm requirements for certain homes that are sold or rented. Required alarms must be located near sleeping areas, including within 15 feet of bedroom doors.

Although carbon monoxide exposure is a concern throughout the year, fire officials say the increased use of heating equipment during fall and winter makes this an especially important time for residents to review their household safety measures.

Additional information about carbon monoxide prevention and home safety is available through the Oregon State Fire Marshal's website.