What
Is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon
monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless deadly gas. Because
you can't see it, taste or smell it, carbon monoxide can kill
you before you know it's there.
Who
is at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Everyone is at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. Medical experts believe,
however, that individuals with greater oxygen requirements such as unborn
babies, infants, children, senior citizens and people with coronary or respiratory
problems are at greater risk.
What
makes carbon monoxide so dangerous?
The great danger of carbon monoxide is its attraction to hemoglobin in the
bloodstream. When inhaled, carbon monoxide bonds with hemoglobin in the blood,
displacing the oxygen which cells need to function. When CO is present in
the air, it rapidly accumulates in the blood, forming a toxic compound known
as carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). Carboxyhemoglobin causes symptoms similar to
the flu, such as headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizzy spells, confusion and
irritability. As levels of COHb increase. vomiting, loss of consciousness
and eventually brain damage or death can result.*
Where
does carbon monoxide come from?
Carbon monoxide is a by-product of incomplete combustion, present whenever
fuel is burned. It is produced by common home appliances, such as gas or
oil furnaces, clothes dryers, ranges, ovens, water heaters or un-vented space
heaters, fireplaces, charcoal grills and wood burning stoves. Fumes from
automobiles also contain carbon monoxide and can enter a home through walls
or doorways if a car is left running in an attached garage.All of these sources
can contribute to a CO problem in the home. If a home is vented properly
and is free from appliance malfunctions, air pressure fluctuations or airway;
venting or chimney blockages, carbon monoxide will most likely be safely
vented to the out side. But energy efficient insulation meant to keep warm
air in during winter months and cool air in during summer months could cause
carbon monoxide to be trapped inside.Furnace heat exchangers can crack, vents
and chimneys can become blocked, disconnected or corroded. Inadequate air
supply for combustion appliances can cause conditions known as down drafting
or reverse stacking, which force CO contaminated air back into the home.
How
can I guard my family from carbon monoxide poisoning?
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends installing at least
one carbon monoxide detector with an audible alarm near the sleeping area.
A detector on every level and in every bedroom provides extra protection.
Remember, a carbon monoxide detector is a purchase that could help save your
life. Select an Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) listed detector. For
an extra margin of safety, chose a self powered, extra sensitive unit that
responds to lower levels of carbon monoxide and protects even during a power
outage. In addition to installing carbon monoxide detectors, have a qualified
professional check all fuel burning appliances, furnaces, venting and chimney
systems at least once a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.
What
do I do if my Carbon Monoxide detector alarms?
