CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Cleveland Division of Fire is seeking donations to supply residents with detectors to prevent deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is also often called the “Silent Killer” because the gas is colorless and odorless. It builds up in homes because of a malfunctioning furnace or poorly vented gas appliances, fireplaces or vehicle exhausts.
Cleveland firefighters are working with the Western Reserve Fire Museum to accept donations to purchase combination detectors, which alert for the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide, according to Cleveland Fire Chief Anthony Luke.
“Carbon monoxide detectors are an important part of keeping your home and family safe,” Luke said in a statement.
Firefighters will install the combination devices in residents’ homes. They also will install smoke detectors provided by the American Red Cross.
Fire officials warn residents that symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can resemble those of the flu without a fever. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, confusion or tiredness.
Cleveland residents can sign up for the free detectors by calling 216-361-5535.
Donations can be made through the museum’s website, https://wrfmc.com/donate-smoke-detector.
The museum preserves the legacy of the region’s firefighters and its historic building at 310 Carnegie Ave. in Cleveland, according to its website. The museum also provides fire prevention and safety programs to prevent deaths and injuries from fires across Northeast Ohio, the website says.
