Deadly Carbon Monoxide: Early Detection Monitors Protect Your Family

Submitted by Marsha Newsom on Sat, 02/20/2010 - 16:16

Carbon monoxide (CO) is the leading cause of poisoning death in American. This odorless, tasteless gas can kill before its victims even know there is a risk. No one is immune to CO poisoning: however infants, children, senior citizens and people who suffer from coronary or respiratory problems are at greater risk. Even unborn babies are at risk for CO poisoning.

About CO

Why is carbon monoxide so dangerous? When you breathe in monoxide, it replaces oxygen, and rapidly accumulates in a your bloodstream, depriving your body of essential oxygen. Victims suffer flu like symptoms, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, vomiting and loss of consciousness. At extreme levels, victims suffer brain damage or death.

CO in Your Home

Carbon monoxide comes into homes whenever and wherever fuel is burned. It can be produced by gas burning home appliances like refrigerators, clothes dryers, ranges, and space heaters. Other culprits are fireplaces, wood burning stoves, and kerosene heaters. Fumes from cars, lawn mowers and other gas burning equipment can enter your home through the walls and doorways of an attached garage.

Ironically, homeowners' efforts to “green up” their homes by sealing and caulking leaks may be creating a dangerous living environment. A tightly sealed home can trap CO in the home. However, if your home is vented properly, and the appliances are functioning properly, carbon monoxide is usually safely vented to the outside. A good maintenance program for your home and appliances can save your life.

How to Protect Your Home

The best defense is an early warning system, with a carbon monoxide detector that sounds alarm before the CO reaches dangerous levels. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends installing at least one carbon monoxide detector per household, near the sleeping area.¹ For maximum protection, install a detector on every level and in each bedroom of the home. Detectors that are hardwired into your homes electrical system should have a battery backup.

References

1. Carbon Monoxide Detectors Can Save Hundreds Of Lives Each Year, Consumer Product Safety Commission,

photo by Sid Eroxylon

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