Become familiar with the symptoms of CO poisoning and what to do if exposed

(28/01/2010)

Carbon Monoxide is dangerous: Often referred to as the "silent killer," continuous exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to brain damage, neurological disorders, even death. While many states have passed carbon monoxide legislation there is a need for national mandatory standards.

Knowledge is your best defense. Become familiar with the symptoms of CO poisoning, the risks for exposure and what to do if exposed.

Because of the similarity of the symptoms to other conditions (cold or flu), carbon monoxide poisoning is often missed.

Symptoms of (CO) Poisoning:
- headache
- feeling sick
- tiredness
- dizziness

Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, tasteless, and can leak from fuel-burning household appliances. Remember, anything that burns is a potential carbon monoxide source.

Sources of (CO):
- Furnaces, heaters and stoves (coal, oil, gas, propane, pellet, wood)
- Water heaters, ovens and clothes dryers
- Fireplaces
- Kerosene space heaters
- Charcoal grills
- Gasoline and diesel-powered generators
- Cigarette smoke
- Idling automobile with closed windows
- Spray paint, solvents, degreasers, and paint removers

Risks for exposure to (CO):
- Riding in the back of enclosed pickup trucks
- Using heating sources or electric generators during power outages
- Air-tight environment created by home weatherization
- Enclosed areas using combustion engines or combustible gases
- Boating: swimming near swim-step of a running boat; mooring next to a
boat running a generator or engine; improper ventilation

Headlines continue to report on the needless deaths caused by carbon monoxide. The CDC (Center for Disease Control & Prevention) reports that more than 600 Americans accidentally die each year of acute CO poisoning. This does not include the estimated 11,000 cases of low-level carbon monoxide poisoning that go undetected yearly.

Through their monthly newsletter and website The Fire Safety Store creates an awareness of the lifesaving value of carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. A limited time discount code (DIS10CO) provides 10% off their prices and can be applied to your order until 30th June 2010.

Related categories:  Boilers - Gas   Detectors and alarms