Carbon monoxide is a gas that has no odor or color. But it is very dangerous. It can cause sudden illness and death. CO is found in combustion fumes, like those made by heating systems, lanterns, gas ranges, stoves and vehicles. When these things are operated in a place without a good flow of fresh air, carbon monoxide fumes can build up, causing a headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.
More than 400 Americans are killed by CO poisoning every year. It can affect anyone, but some people are more likely to get sick from CO. Infants, senior adults and people with chronic heart disease, anemia or breathing problems are at highest risk.
People can take important steps to protect their family from this silent killer.
Install a battery-powered CO detector to warn with an alarm if the CO levels get high.
Ensure chimney and heating systems, water heater and any other gas, oil or coal burning appliances are serviced by a qualified technician every year.
Never use a generator, camp stove or portable flameless chemical heater in a home, or burn charcoal inside a house.
Do not use a gas oven or stove top to heat a home.
Make sure gas appliances are vented properly. When an odor is smelled, or a vent pipe needs patching, call a professional.
Never run a car in the garage, even with the garage door open. Pull the vehicle outside to let it warm up. Have a vehicle's exhaust system checked each year. Be sure to roll down the windows when the back hatch of a vehicle is open while it is running. Otherwise CO can build up inside the vehicle.
Someone experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning should get outside to fresh air immediately. The person could fall unconscious and die if they stay inside. Call the fire department from a neighbor's home or from a cell phone. Also, seek medical care immediately, and tell the medical staff that CO poisoning is suspected. If a health care provider confirms CO poisoning, be sure to find the source of the CO and fix it before returning home.
Community on 01/27/2016