Share
Nov 08 2022

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisonings

According to the CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health, more than 50,000 people in the U.S. seek help at emergency rooms for the treatment of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. At least 430 of them die.
Literally a “silent killer,” CO is a highly poisonous, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that is also extremely flammable. It is produced when propane, wood, heating oil, natural gas or other fuels burn without sufficient oxygen. CO can build up in enclosed areas quickly, exposing victims to harmful or even fatal levels without them realizing it. Children and the elderly are the most likely to get sick from CO exposure, but everyone is vulnerable. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before they notice any symptoms.
Firefighter and paramedic helping man in ambulance
Most CO poisoning incidents are due to improper equipment installation, maintenance or use, which means such incidents are almost entirely preventable. Some possible sources of dangerous CO levels include:
• A vehicle running in an enclosed garage.
• A generator running indoors, or outdoors within 20 feet of a door, window or vent.
• A gas range or oven used for heating.
• Fuel-burning space heating or water heating equipment that is inadequately vented.
• A propane camping stove, charcoal barbecue or kerosene lantern used indoors.
• A fireplace with a blocked chimney or vent pipe.
• Equipment and appliance exhaust vents that become blocked by flooding, ice, snow or debris.
• Smoldering insulation on overheated electrical wires. This can send CO through electrical conduits and into buildings.
Signs of CO poisoning
Watch for these common signs of CO poisoning:
• Cherry red skin color
• Impaired mobility
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion
• Sleepiness
• Tight chest
Share