What should you pay attention to in order to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and highly toxic. To prevent poisoning, it's essential to use gas appliances properly, install detection and alarm devices, maintain good ventilation in living spaces, perform regular equipment maintenance, and learn emergency response measures. Details are as follows:

1. **Use gas appliances properly**: Gas water heaters, stoves, and similar devices should be installed in well-ventilated areas such as kitchens or balconies. Never use them in enclosed spaces like bathrooms or bedrooms. Always supervise during use to prevent spills that could extinguish flames and cause gas leaks. Close the main gas valve promptly after use.

2. **Install detection and alarm devices**: Install carbon monoxide detectors near gas appliances and in frequently occupied areas such as bedrooms and living rooms. Choose products that meet national standards, and regularly check battery levels and alarm functions to ensure proper operation and timely detection of leaks.

3. **Maintain adequate ventilation**: When using coal stoves or charcoal for heating in winter, ensure there are ventilation gaps even in cold weather—avoid completely sealing doors and windows. When operating gas heating systems, turn on exhaust fans or open windows to promote air circulation between indoor and outdoor spaces, reducing the risk of gas accumulation.

4. **Perform regular equipment maintenance**: Schedule annual inspections by qualified professionals to check gas pipelines, valves, water heaters, and stoves. Replace any aging or damaged components immediately. Keep chimneys and exhaust pipes unobstructed and free from blockages to prevent backflow of gases into indoor areas.

5. **Learn emergency response procedures**: Be aware of early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. If discomfort occurs, assess whether there may be a gas hazard. If a leak is suspected, immediately shut off the appliance valve, open doors and windows for ventilation, evacuate to a safe outdoor location, and avoid switching electrical devices on or off or using mobile phones indoors.

Regularly educate family members about carbon monoxide poisoning prevention, especially reminding elderly individuals and children about safe usage practices. When renting vehicles or staying in homestays, always check ventilation conditions and the presence of alarm devices to fully strengthen safety defenses and prevent accidents.