COLUMBIA — As Thanksgiving approaches and families gather to cook their turkeys, many Missourians are cranking up their furnaces to keep their homes warm and welcoming.

However, it’s important to stay vigilant to avoid the hidden dangers of natural gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning, according to a holiday safety message from Ameren Missouri.

Ameren Missouri is reminding its customers that while natural gas is a safe and efficient way to heat a home, improper use or maintenance of appliances can lead to an unexpected release or leak of natural gas. Leaks can be dangerous because natural gas is highly flammable and easily ignited by heat or sparks. Unlike carbon monoxide, natural gas can be detected by your senses.

“If you smell an odor of rotten eggs or hear a hissing or leaking sound near an appliance, we recommend that you leave the premises immediately without attempting to ventilate the property,” said Pam Harrison, senior director of gas operations for Ameren Missouri. “From a safe distance upwind, call Ameren Missouri at 1-800-552-7583 and stay away until we deem the area safe.”

Ameren Missouri is also urging residents to safeguard their families from the buildup of carbon monoxide in their homes ahead of the holidays. As a first line of defense, install carbon monoxide detectors outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, odorless gas, so it is also crucial to test detectors monthly and know the signs of exposure.

Every year, carbon monoxide poisoning kills hundreds of Americans and sends thousands more to the hospital. Poisoning and illness can occur when fossil fuels and other materials are burned without proper ventilation. Potential sources of carbon monoxide can be found where improper burning of gasoline, natural gas, propane, kerosene, coal, wood and charcoal occurs.

To prevent natural gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning, Ameren Missouri encourages everyone to:

• Have all appliance repairs and annual checks performed by a qualified professional

• Keep all appliances clear of combustibles such as flammable liquids, newspapers, cardboard boxes, rags and lumber.

•ªEnsure natural gas-burning equipment, such as furnaces, water heaters or clothes dryers, are properly vented.

For more natural gas and carbon monoxide safety tips, visit Ameren.com/NaturalGasSafety.