Actions You Can Take

Make sure all fuel-burning appliances are properly installed, used, and maintained following all manufacturer's instructions. If possible, use fuel-burning appliances that are vented to the outside. 

• Gas cooking stoves: Install and use an exhaust fan vented outdoors over gas stoves. Never use the stove to keep you warm or heat your house.
• Unvented heaters: Use the proper fuel and keep the heater adjusted the right way. Open a window when you are using the heater.
• Replace gas with induction stove: Learn about induction cooking from Center for Eco Technology and rebates available.

Steps You Can Take To Reduce Exposure

• If you have an exhaust fan, use it every time you cook!
• Cook on the back burner –
• Your face will be further from the fumes. (if you have an exhaust fan, it will work better!)
• Use the lowest heat necessary.
• Use oils with a higher smoke point.
• Refined safflower, sunflower, peanut, ghee and light olive oil are preferred to canola, vegetable oil, extra virgin olive oil or butter.
• Open the window while cooking if weather permits
• UNLESS the window faces a busy street.
• Consider getting an air purifier.   Check out the factsheets from the California Regional Asthma Management and Prevention Programs on Air Cleaners for Asthma Programs  [En Espanol]
• Use small electronic appliances instead of the gas stove: Microwaves, toaster ovens, crock pots, and rice cookers are good options. Air fryers are not recommended.  
• Incense vs Candles: Incense emits more dangerous chemicals than candles so if needed, use candles instead of incense as air freshener (HOWEVER: it is always better to use other natural air fresheners such as boiling fresh citrus with cinnamon and water to reduce the amount of harmful chemicals in the air!)