Beware of the Silent Killer: Protect Your Home Against Carbon Monoxide
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When you think of all the dangers to your family, you may not consider carbon monoxide (CO), but it is actually an easily over-looked threat in many homes. Unlike a fire, which can be seen or smelled, CO is colorless and odorless, and if undetected can be fatal. CO is found in combustion from things such as stoves, cars, and heating systems. If released into an enclosed space your body will pick up CO, and at a faster rate than oxygen. If enough CO gets into your blood, it will block out the oxygen, damaging tissue, and if bad enough, will lead to death. Every year in the U.S. approximately 400 people die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning and at least 20,000 go to the Emergency Room. If exposed to CO you may experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea or chest pain.The winter months can be a time of increased risk, because many people will use flameless heaters or generators indoors when it gets extremely cold or if there is a power outage. These heaters should never be used indoors because of the CO they emit. You should also have your home heating systems and any appliances that burn gas, coal or oil serviced annually and have any damages repaired. Many states have now passed laws requiring CO detectors in homes. These devices are a great way to avoid CO poisoning without having to constantly worry about if there are any unknown sources of CO in your home. Another source of CO is the exhaust from an automobile. Never run a car or truck in a closed garage because with no flow of fresh air you are at risk for CO poisoning.Regardless of whether or not it is required in your area, you should purchase and install a CO detector in your house so that no one in your family will become a victim of this easily-preventable problem.