SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Well below-average temperatures could increase your risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. It may be your instinct during this time of year to crank the heat or use your fireplace. However, these are only a couple of ways that you could risk releasing carbon monoxide into your home. Dangerous cold temperatures delay schools in western Massachusetts Carbon monoxide poisoning is particularly dangerous because it's odorless and colorless. This makes the toxic gas impossible to detect without proper equipment. Springfield Fire Department Captain Drew Piemonte told 22News how to properly set up carbon monoxide detectors. "Detectors will go off out of a small amount of CO, sometimes they could be in the wrong location," Piemonte said. "So we suggest that people follow manufacturer's instructions on where to install them, how to install them." The CDC reports that more than 400 people die every year from carbon monoxide poisoning. Common appliances to check on are your stove, oven, and gas generators. It's important that you contact a professional to fix any repairs on these items.If you suspect that your home has a gas leak, call your local gas company and emergency services. Local News Headlines Springfield Union Station sees sizable increase in ridership during Fiscal Year 2024 Using heat in winter increases risk of carbon monoxide poisoning: what to look out for Governor Healey unveils $59 billion 2026 budget Officials approve new Springfield courthouse plans WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.