Carbon Monoxide The Silent Killer
Falling prey to carbon monoxide is easy because the toxic gas produced by burning fuel is colorless and odorless. Vehicle engines, as well as the burning of oil, coal, wood, propane and natural gas can produce carbon monoxide which can be deadly in a closed or non-ventilated area.Carbon monoxide kills by interfering with the blood's ability to absorb and transport oxygen. Most victims die while sitting in an idling car or during their sleep in a poorly ventilated house with a gas or wood stove burning.
It is important to know the signs of carbon monoxide being present in the home:
- flu-like symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, headache, vomiting or nausea
- dying house plants
- condensation on the inside of the windows
- discoloration or soot build-up on heating appliances, the fireplace or at the warm air outlets of the heating system, and
- loose, disconnected, rusted or water-streaked vents on the chimney
What to do if you have these symptoms
If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in the home, open windows immediately to allow fresh air inside. Turn off all heating appliances.If you feel weak or need emergency assistance call 911 immediately.Seek medical advice for physical symptoms and have a licensed gas contractor inspect your home and gas appliances. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real threat in today's energy efficient houses. Most modern houses are so tightly sealed that carbon monoxide cannot escape as easily as it can in drafty old houses. Carbon monoxide detectors can help but bedroom windows should be left slightly open for ventilation all year long.
Source of Carbon Monoxide
CO is a by product of incomplete burning of fuels, including wood, heating oil, propane, natural gas, kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel, coal or charcoal. Equipments that are not maintained properly, inadequate fresh air supply for safe burning and venting of exhaust gases, and a deteriorating or blocked chimney or flue can create a carbon monoxide hazard in your home. Careless use of equipments can also create a hazard.
