Carbon Monoxide Awareness: How to Protect Your Home

by Foley’s Heating & AC, Inc.

November was declared Carbon Monoxide Awareness month in the late 2000s since carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning kills more people in winter than any other time of the year. Because carbon monoxide is known as “the silent killer,” the worst-case scenario is often a result of people using a heating source that they believe is safe and never realize the threat.

The American Medical Association declares there are on average 450 deaths per year resulting from accidental CO poisoning.

Carbon monoxide sources can include heaters, appliances, furnaces, generators, automobiles, and using fuel sources as heating and cooking facilitators, i.e., coal, wood, petroleum, or any fuels that emit CO by combustion.

Another issue is the diagnosis of carbon monoxide poisoning. The symptoms are similar to a host of other illnesses including headaches, dizziness, weakness, chest pain, nausea, and vomiting. More severe cases can include disorientation, unconsciousness, and potentially long-term neurological disabilities, cardiorespiratory failure, and death.

Protect Against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Install/test CO alarms. They are the only way to detect this poisonous gas. Install alarms on every level of the home and near each sleeping area for maximum protection. Test alarms monthly and check batteries every six months. • Have fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly.

Arrange for a professional inspection of all fuelburning appliances annually to detect any CO leaks.

• Run kitchen vents or exhaust fans anytime the gas stove is in use. A gas stove is among the most frequent sources of CO poisoning in the home.

To help eliminate the danger of overexposure, always run exhaust fans when cooking. You can also open a nearby window periodically when cooking to allow fresh air to circulate.

• Never use generators indoors. In the case of a power outage, portable electric generators must be used outside only. Never use them inside the home, in a garage, or in any confined area.

• Be mindful of the garage. Never leave a car running in an attached garage. Even if the garage door is open, CO emissions can leak into the home.

• Know whom to call. If a CO alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call 9-1-1. l