Basic First Aid

Because it is tasteless, odorless and colorless, it is impossible for people to sense excessive levels of carbon monoxide in the air. However, all cities suffer from some carbon monoxide pollution, and it has even been known to cause deaths in the home. Nearly 200 people die in the United States annually from carbon monoxide from consumer products.

Carbon monoxide does occur naturally in the air but the majority of pollution in cities is caused by cars and other vehicles, as well as the burning of certain fuels. In people’s houses, carbon monoxide poisoning is most often caused by faulty heating equipment, cooking appliances and boilers.

Carbon monoxide gas is often utilized in industry for making chemicals and also in the meat industry and medicine. While carbon monoxide levels in the atmosphere are a worry in urban areas, it is domestically where the real dangers lie. And while deaths are rare, over-exposure to the gas can cause major health problems.

Some of the early symptoms of poisoning include headaches, fatigue and nausea, and can sometimes be confused with flu. In more serious cases these warning signs can develop to dizziness, convulsions, breathing problems and even death.

For this reason, it is important to be aware of excessive carbon monoxide in the home and it could be wise to invest in a carbon monoxide sensor, also called a CO detector. These are usually placed in the home near potentially dangerous appliances, such as furnaces. When carbon monoxide levels are too high an alarm sounds, allowing occupants to the opportunity to leave the building and ventilate it completely until it is safe to return.

CO detectors look like and function like smoke alarms and can be purchased for about the $30-50 mark

When your CO detector goes off, the first thing you should do is ensure that nobody in the house is experiencing symptoms. If so, get them out of the house immediately and contact a health professional.

Just as important however is a good knowledge of the dangers of carbon monoxide. With a few simple precautions you can safeguard your loved ones and your house:

* Check that all fuel-burning appliances such as heaters and furnaces are serviced and cleaned annually. All chimneys and vents must be checked too. If any of the equipment isn’t working properly it must be repaired or replaced.

* Take care when utilizing kerosene or gas space heaters in the house. These should never be used in an unvented room.

* Never use a gas oven to heat your home and never use gas-powered equipment, like generators, inside.

* Never leave your car idling in a closed garage.

Filed under: Poison