9 Innocent Garage Mistakes That Lead to Carbon Monoxide Deaths
Carbon monoxide deaths are a silent and tragic risk in many homes, especially when it comes to garages. This invisible, odorless gas can build up quickly and cause harm before you even realize it’s there. Many people don’t realize how everyday garage mistakes can put their families at risk. Whether you’re starting your car on a cold morning or storing equipment, small errors can have deadly consequences. Understanding these innocent garage mistakes is essential to keeping your loved ones safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.
1. Warming Up Your Car in the Garage
It’s tempting to start your car in the garage to warm it up on chilly days, but this is one of the leading causes of carbon monoxide deaths. Even with the garage door open, carbon monoxide can accumulate quickly and seep into your home. Modern cars run more quietly, making it easy to forget they’re still running. Always move your car outside before starting it, no matter the weather.
2. Leaving the Garage Door Partially Open
Many people think cracking the garage door is enough to let fumes escape. Unfortunately, this doesn’t provide adequate ventilation. Carbon monoxide is heavier than air and can linger, especially in partially enclosed spaces. A partially open door creates a false sense of security and still allows toxic gas to enter your home. When running any engine, make sure the garage is completely open and well-ventilated—or better yet, keep engines off inside the garage altogether.
3. Running Gas-Powered Tools Indoors
Power tools like generators, pressure washers, or lawn mowers often use gasoline engines. Operating these in your garage, even for just a few minutes, can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Many people underestimate how quickly fumes can accumulate, especially in attached garages. Always use gas-powered tools outside and away from open doors or windows.
4. Ignoring Garage Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for garage safety, but it’s often overlooked. Many garages are built with minimal airflow, which means any carbon monoxide produced can linger. Installing vents or fans can help, but they are not a substitute for safe practices. Regularly check that your ventilation systems are working and avoid blocking any airways with storage boxes or equipment.
5. Not Installing Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Many homeowners install smoke detectors but forget about carbon monoxide alarms. Without these, you may not realize there’s a problem until it’s too late. Place carbon monoxide detectors near the garage entrance to your home and in sleeping areas for added protection. Test them regularly and replace batteries as needed.
6. Storing Old or Leaky Vehicles
Old cars or those with exhaust leaks are more likely to emit carbon monoxide, even when idling. If you keep a project car or seldom-used vehicle in your garage, be extra cautious. Regular maintenance is critical. Never run these vehicles inside the garage, and repair any exhaust issues promptly. If you must test a vehicle, do so outdoors and away from your home.
7. Using Charcoal Grills or Heaters in the Garage
Grilling or heating with charcoal inside the garage is extremely dangerous. Charcoal produces carbon monoxide as it burns, and the gas can build up rapidly in an enclosed space. This mistake often happens during power outages or when people want to avoid bad weather. Always use grills and portable heaters outside, far from the garage and your home’s doors and windows.
8. Overlooking Attached Garage Risks
Homes with attached garages face a higher risk of carbon monoxide deaths. Fumes can easily travel through small cracks or shared walls into living spaces. Weatherstripping around doors and sealing any gaps can help, but the best defense is prevention. Never run engines or burn fuel inside an attached garage, even for a short period.
9. Forgetting About Backup Generators
During storms or outages, people often run backup generators in the garage to keep them out of the rain. Unfortunately, this is a common cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators produce high levels of carbon monoxide, and even a few minutes of use in the garage is dangerous. Always run generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from your house, and never near open windows or vents.
Simple Steps for Preventing Carbon Monoxide Deaths
Preventing carbon monoxide deaths in your garage requires awareness and a few simple habits. Always move vehicles and gas-powered tools outside before starting them, and never use grills or heaters indoors. Install carbon monoxide detectors in key locations, especially near garages and sleeping areas. Regularly maintain your vehicles and equipment to ensure they aren’t leaking exhaust.
By staying alert and making a few small changes, you can keep your garage safe and protect your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning. What steps have you taken to reduce carbon monoxide risks in your home? Share your tips or questions in the comments below!
