CARBON MONOXIDE: What You Need To Know
Carbon monoxide (CO) results from the combustion of fuels such as natural gas, oil, and propane in devices including furnaces, water heaters and stoves. Improper installation, incomplete combustion, or blockages, leaks or cracks in venting systems can cause CO to reach harmful levels inside the home. ColoUrless and odorless, dangerously high levels of CO can lead to incapacitation or death, with victims sometimes never having been aware they were being poisoned.
Prevention and working alarms are key to avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning:
·
Test CO alarms regularly and make sure
they are properly located.
·
Have all fuel-burning appliances
professionally inspected annually, including gas stoves and ovens, gas, pellet
or wood-burning fireplaces, furnaces and heaters, water heaters and gas clothes
dryers.
·
Don’t use a gas stove or oven to heat
the home, even temporarily.
·
Never start a vehicle in a closed
garage or idle the engine in the garage even if the overhead door is open.
·
Gasoline-powered generators and
charcoal grills must never be used indoors or close to the home.
· Learn what to do if the CO alarm activates. If anyone in the home experiences symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, or confusion, everyone should leave immediately and seek medical attention. If no symptoms are felt, open doors and windows immediately and shut off all fuel-burning devices that may be potential sources of CO.
Keep your family safe and avoid an unnecessary tragedy.
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