Turning up the heat in a house may keep people warm, but it also means potential health hazards.

The American Association of Poison Control Centers warns that hundreds of deaths are caused each year due to exposure to carbon monoxide coming from sources like gas furnaces and space heaters.

"All fuel-powered engines produce (carbon monoxide) gas," Edward Krenzelok, a poison control center board member, said in a press release. "Although such devices are safe if used correctly, a malfunction or improper ventilation can make these common household appliances deadly."

Jennifer Lowry, a medical toxicologist at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, said it's difficult to identify the colorless, odorless toxin when a leak occurs.

"The symptoms can be very tough to identify," she said. "Initially, people wait for a long period of time because they think they have the flu or a cold."

The St. Joseph Fire Department responds to calls year-round about carbon monoxide leaks in St. Joseph, especially in the winter.

"Five to 10 of those calls turn out pretty serious," said fire inspector Steve Henrichson.

Due to escalating natural gas prices, people may be prone to finding cheaper ways to heat their home. Julie Weber, director of the Missouri Regional Poison Center, suggests using an electric furnace, if available, and if not, to check the heating device to make sure it's in proper working order.

"Do a good safety check at the beginning of the winter, make sure everything is working correctly. If you are using a fireplace, make sure the chimney is clear and that there are no birds' nests clogging it," she said.

Mr. Henrichson suggests homeowners look for things such as cracks in the chimney, making sure the mortar hasn't dried out in wood stoves and the burners are working on furnaces and gas fireplaces.

Both Mr. Henrichson and Ms. Weber agree that appliances meant for outdoor use, such as gas grills, should stay outside.

"Barbecue grills can be a big cause of carbon monoxide poisoning if they're brought inside," Ms. Weber said.

If there is suspicion of some type of carbon monoxide leak, Mr. Henrichson said to call the Fire Department immediately to have it checked out.

A sure way to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning is to install detectors.

"There should be at least one carbon monoxide detector in the area near the bedrooms," Ms. Weber said.

Andrew Gaug can be contacted

at andrewgaug@npgco.com