For Release: 12/11/2008
MGU Reminds Customers of Carbon Monoxide
Monroe, MI – With another winter season bearing down, Michigan Gas Utilities, a subsidiary of Integrys Energy Group (NYSE: TEG), offers a note of caution about carbon monoxide to its customers.
"We're all aware of energy costs and sealing a home against cold air is good practice; however, we need to be careful not to overdo it" said Paul Livernois, spokesman for Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU). "The tighter the home, the greater the need for adequate ventilation. Any flame-producing appliance must have a certain amount of air to burn efficiently," Livernois added. When homes are over-winterized, such as by wrapping windows and doors with plastic, the amount of air that circulates inside the home is reduced and sometimes there is not enough ventilation for the flame to burn properly.
Buying a carbon monoxide detector or checking the status of your existing detector is a good idea.
Be suspicious of potential carbon monoxide buildup if any of these signs are noticeable:
- If you experience flu-like symptoms only when at home
- If you notice a yellow rather than blue flame on the furnace burner, excessive humidity on windows, a draft from the front of the furnace when it is not operating or a fireplace that does not draw properly.
Contact emergency services (911) if you need assistance.
MGU recommends the following precautions to avoid a carbon monoxide situation:
- Have your furnace and major gas appliances checked by a professional during the heating season, if that step was missed in the fall.
- Ensure wood-burning stoves and fireplaces are vented properly.
- Remember that only one stove or fireplace should be connected per chimney.
- Install a detector that gives an audible warning if CO is present.
"The key to winter is to have a comfortable home. Sometimes there is a fine line between a home being comfortable and being just a little too tight. If your home or that of a family member does not have a CO detector, consider purchasing one this holiday season." Livernois said.
Discount on Alarms
MGU has partnered with First Alert to offer a 10 percent discount on all their Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms, CO-Smoke combinations and One-Link wireless alarms. More information is available in your December gas bill or online at www.michigangasutilities.com.
For More Information, Contact:
- Paul Livernois
Manager – External Affairs
734-457-6123
- Michigan Gas Utilities Customer Service
800-401-6402