|
What's the Problem?
Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause
sudden illness and death. Carbon monoxide is found in combustion fumes, such
as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves,
lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems.
Carbon monoxide from these sources can build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed
spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned by breathing it.
The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache,
dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. High
levels of carbon monoxide ingestion can cause loss of consciousness and
death. Unless suspected, carbon monoxide poisoning can be difficult to
diagnose because the symptoms mimic other illnesses. People who are sleeping
or intoxicated can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever
experiencing symptoms.
Who's at Risk?
All people and animals are at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning.
Certain groups -- unborn babies, infants, and people with chronic heart
disease, anemia, or respiratory problems -- are more susceptible to its
effects.
Can It Be Prevented?
Yes, you can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by taking simple
precautions to make sure that:
-
all fuel-burning appliances are properly installed, maintained, and
operated;
-
furnaces, water heaters, and gas dryers are inspected annually by a
qualified service technician;
-
fireplace chimneys and flues are checked and cleaned every year;
-
unvented fuel-burning space heaters are used only while someone is
awake to monitor them and doors or windows in the room are open to provide
fresh air;
-
automobile exhaust systems are routinely inspected for defects; and
-
automobile tailpipes are routinely inspected for blockage by snow
during the winter months.
Remember:
-
never use a gas range or oven to heat a home;
-
never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping
stove inside a home, tent, or camper;
-
never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine
inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors
or windows are open, unless the equipment is professionally installed and
vented;
-
never run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any
gasoline-powered engine outside of an open window or door where exhaust
can vent into an enclosed area;
-
never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or
semi-enclosed space, such as a closed garage.
Knowledge is the key to preventing carbon monoxide poisoning. In most
cases of unintentional poisonings, victims did not realize that carbon
monoxide was being produced or building up in the air they were breathing.
Carbon monoxide can be easily and cheaply detected in the home; several
relatively inexpensive carbon monoxide alarms are available. Consider
placing a carbon monoxide alarm on each level of your homes and in your
bedrooms.
|
