As temperatures drop and heating systems run longer, it's important to stay alert to carbon monoxide (CO) safety. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can build up when fuel-burning appliances aren't operating or venting properly. National Fuel is reminding customers to take simple precautions to keep their homes safe this winter.

What is Carbon Monoxide? CO is created when fuels such as natural gas, propane, gasoline, wood, or oil burn incompletely. Common sources include furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and portable generators. Because CO cannot be seen or smelled, prevention and detection are key.

National Fuel's Safety Checklist:

• Install CO Detectors: Place detectors outside sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
• Schedule Annual Inspections: Have chimneys, appliances, and heating equipment checked by a qualified professional.
• Keep Vents Clear: Remove snow, ice, and debris from appliance exhaust and intake vents.
• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: For ventless heaters and other appliances.
• Avoid Improper Heat Sources: Never use a gas oven for heating, run engines in enclosed spaces, or use charcoal/propane grills indoors.

It is important to know the warning signs for CO exposure and poisoning: Fatigue, coughing, headache, irregular breathing, dizziness, paleness, nausea, cherry red lips and ears and confusion can signal trouble. If suspected, leave immediately to outside fresh air and call .

"Safety is our top priority," said Karen L. Merkel, spokesperson for National Fuel. "Installing detectors and scheduling annual inspections are simple steps that help protect families during the heating season."

As always, if you Smell Gas, Leave Fast: if a rotten-egg natural gas odor is present, leave the premises immediately and call National Fuel's 24/7/365 emergency line at, 1-800-444-3130, from a different location. If you smell an odor of gas outdoors, leave the area immediately, call National Fuel's emergency number and provide the address nearest to the site of the odor. To learn more about natural gas safety, visit www.nationalfuel.com/utility/gas-safety/.

National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation is the Utility segment of National Fuel Gas Company, serving 2.2 million residents in Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania. For more information, visit www.nationalfuel.com.