Natural gas is a safe, reliable and affordable energy choice used for many daily activities, such as heating food, drying laundry and providing heat. However, natural gas should always be handled properly and with care. Peoples Gas safety experts on Monday demonstrated how carbon monoxide is produced when natural gas appliances are not working properly. The officials held a carbon monoxide safety demonstration at Peoples Gas technical training center to help inform the public of the dangers of, and preventive measures to take against, carbon monoxide poisoning. Peoples Gas urges customers to install at least one CO detector on each level of their home or building and get appliances checked yearly.

Be aware of the following symptoms of CO poisoning:

• Sudden flu-like illness
• Dizziness, headaches, sleepiness
• Nausea or vomiting

Peoples Gas safety tips for carbon monoxide poisoning prevention:

• Be alert for the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms and replace them every five years.
• Have all fuel-burning appliances, flues, vents and chimneys checked regularly.

Know about carbon monoxide (CO) detectors:

• If your home has a basement, install a CO alarm at the top of the basement stairs.
• Change the batteries in CO alarms at the beginning of winter and then every six months.
• Replace CO alarms older than five years.

If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Open the windows.
• Get yourself and everyone else out of the house and into fresh air immediately.
• Call 911 or emergency medical help.

For more information, visit www.peoplesgasdelivery.com.