Patients should be advised to:
Ensure fuel-burning appliances, chimneys, and flues are kept clean and in good condition.
Keep ventilation mechanisms open to outside while burning fuel or maintaining an indoor fireplace.
Ensure adequate ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances.
Avoid running motor vehicles or other internal combustion engines such as leaf blowers, weed trimmers, or lawn mowers inside an enclosed space (e.g., the garage) because as this leads to a build-up of fumes and an increase in CO levels.
Check regional legal requirements for CO detectors and ensure these requirements are met by fitting detectors that meet national standards. Detectors should not be used as a substitute for regular servicing of appliances because the detector will not be activated if the patient is exposed to low levels of CO.
Avoid using charcoal grills inside the house or other enclosed spaces.
Maintain proper fire safety and prevention protocols.
Ensure buildings and dwellings are maintained to local building codes.