Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning Prevention
October 15, 2024 9:00 amEvery year, more than 400 people die in the U.S. from accidental Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning that is not linked to fires. More than 100,000 people visit the emergency room and 14,000 are hospitalized.
CO can be found in fumes produced by portable generators, stoves, lanterns, and gas ranges, and even by burning charcoal and wood. Oftentimes, these different sources will be in enclosed spaces, and if CO is present, it can be extremely dangerous to breathe for people and animals alike. However, there are many ways to prevent CO from affecting you, your family, and your pet’s health.
What Are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
When dealing with CO poisoning, the most common symptoms are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Those most at risk for CO poisoning include infants, the elderly, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, and breathing problems. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms.
Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Exposure
CO poisoning is entirely preventable. Protect yourself and your family through the following CO-poisoning prevention tips:
- Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal-burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
- Don’t use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window.
- Don’t run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
- Don’t burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn’t vented.
- Install a battery-operated or battery backup CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911.
- Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous.
Tips for Installing a CO Detector
CO detectors need to be installed on every single floor so they have the opportunity to detect any potential danger of CO in any location of your home. When you are getting a CO detector installed, it can be beneficial to have one that will tell you the highest level of CO concentration in your home, while sounding an alarm. Make sure to check the batteries the moment you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall so you can be sure they are operating properly.
Instant Alarm will Help Protect You & Your Family from CO Poisoning
Instant Alarm will install devices to help detect the risk of CO. The installation of these CO detectors may be the only notification for your family for the need to vacate your home. Your carbon monoxide detectors will be monitored by our operators at our own UL-listed central monitoring station. You do not need a phone line for monitoring as we offer wireless and internet monitoring options.
For more information about CO gas and its dangers, please visit www.cdc.gov/co, the online source for credible health information, and the official website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).