CARBON MONOXIDE
A Timeless Tip from Hire it Done
Carbon monoxide is commonly known as "the silent killer." Because it is colorless, odorless and tasteless, human senses can not detect it. Carbon monoxide poisoning claims the lives of nearly 300 people in their homes each year according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Carbon monoxide is a potentially deadly gas that is produced by fuel-burning heating equipment, such as furnaces, wood stoves, fireplaces and kerosene heaters. Follow these guidelines to help keep loved ones safe.
- Install at least one carbon monoxide alarm near sleeping areas.
- Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune-up your home's central heating system and repair leaks or other problems; fireplaces and woodstoves should also be inspected each year and cleaned or repaired as needed.
- Keep gas appliances properly adjusted and serviced.
- Never use an oven or range to heat your home.
- Never use a gas or charcoal grill inside your home or in a closed garage.
- Portable electric generators must be used outside only. Never use them indoors, in a garage or in any confined area that can allow carbon monoxide to collect. Follow usage directions closely.
Exposure to low levels of this odorless gas can produce a throbbing headache, dizziness, fatigue, mental confusion, and shortness of breath. Higher exposures result in severe headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea, irregular heartbeat, and unconsciousness.
Occasionally, these symptoms can be mistaken for symptoms of the flu. Exposure to very high levels of carbon monoxide can cause seizures, coma, respiratory failure, and death. In addition to the toxic effects of CO, this gas is very flammable and high concentrations may be explosive.
You can pick up a home carbon monoxide detector at your local hardware store for as low as $25.