Carbon Monoxide Safety :

What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas, deadly gas. It can be deadly and kill you before you know it because you can’t see it, taste it or smell it. At lower levels of exposure it can cause various health problems also.

What are the sources of CO?

Carbon monoxide is produced as a result of incomplete burning of carbon containing fuels including coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas and fuel oil. It can be emitted by combustion sources such as un-vented kerosene and gas space heaters, furnaces, woodstoves, gas stoves, fireplaces, water heaters, automobile exhaust from attached garages, and tobacco smoke. Problems arise as a result of improper installation, maintenance, or inadequate ventilation.

Health Effects of CO Poisoning

Carbon monoxide interferes with the distribution of oxygen in the blood to the body. Depending on the amount inhaled, CO can worsen cardiovascular conditions, produce fatigue, headaches, weakness, confusion, disorientation, nausea, and dizziness Very high levels can be fatal to the victim.

How to Prevent CO Poisoning

• Ensure that appliances are properly installed and working to the manufacturers instructions.

   

• Have annual inspections on your heating system, chimneys, and flues and have them cleaned by a qualified technician.

   

• Make sure the flue is open when fireplaces are in use.

   

• Use proper fuel in kerosene space heaters.

   

• Do not heat your home with ovens or gas ranges.

   

• Do not use barbecue grills inside of your home, cabin, recreational vehicle, or camper.

   

• Always keep your dryer vent clean of lint buildup.

   

• Make sure that stoves and heaters are vented to the outside and check that exhaust systems do not leak.

   

• Don’t use un-vented gas or kerosene space heaters in enclosed spaces.

   

• Never leave a vehicle running in a garage or in any enclosed space.

   

• Try to have a CO detector on every level of your home, especially in the area of your bedrooms.

   

• Never use portable gas generators in enclosed areas, especially never use them inside of homes or garages.