Fire Marshal William E. Barnard encourages Marylanders to be mindful of the dangers of carbon monoxide, a colorless, tasteless and potentially toxic gas.

Homeowners should consider purchasing a carbon monoxide alarm if they live in a house that has liquid-fueled space heaters, an attached garage, gas appliances, oil heat or a wood stove or fireplace, according to a Maryland State Fire Marshal’s press release. The best place to locate an alarm is in the hallway just outside of sleeping areas.

Chances of being poisoned by carbon monoxide can be decreased by not letting cars idle in the garage; not using a gas range, oven or clothes dryer for heating; scheduling preventative maintenance inspections for fuel-fired appliances; making sure chimneys and flues are inspected and cleaned each year; and not running a generator inside or near an entrance to homes.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause symptoms similar to the flu, including headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness and irritability, the press release states. High concentrations of carbon monoxide can cause vomiting, loss of consciousness and even death.

KATIE FITZPATRICK