Basic First Aid

Because it is tasteless, has no smell and is invisible, it is impossible for a person to know if there are excessive levels of carbon monoxide in the air. However, all urban areas suffer from some carbon monoxide pollution, and it has even caused fatalities in the home. Nearly 200 people die in the USA each year from carbon monoxide from consumer products.

Carbon monoxide does occur naturally in the atmosphere but almost all of urban pollution is caused by cars and other vehicles, as well as the burning of some fuels. At home, carbon monoxide poisoning is most often caused by poorly maintained heating equipment, cooking appliances and boilers.

Carbon monoxide gas is commonly utilized in industry for making chemicals and also in meat production and medicine. Though carbon monoxide levels in the air are a concern in cities, it is at home where the greatest hazards lie. And while fatalities are rare, over-exposure to the gas can result in serious health complications.

Initial warning signs of poisoning include headaches, tiredness and nausea, and can often be confused with flu. In more serious episodes these warning signs can develop to dizziness, convulsions, respiratory problems and even death.

Because of this, it is vital to know when there is too much carbon monoxide in your home and it could be worth investing in a carbon monoxide sensor, sometimes called a CO detector. These are most often placed in the home near potentially hazardous appliances, such as furnaces. When carbon monoxide levels are too high an alarm sounds, allowing occupants to the chance to leave the building and ventilate it entirely until it is safe to return.

Carbon monoxide sensors are similar in appearance and function to smoke alarms and can be found for about the 30-50 dollar mark

When your carbon monoxide sensor goes off, the first thing you should do is ensure that nobody in the home is experiencing symptoms. If they are, get them out of the house immediately and contact a hospital.

Just as important however is a good awareness of the hazards of carbon monoxide. With some simple precautions you can safeguard your loved ones and your home:

* Check that all fuel-burning appliances like heaters and boilers are maintained and cleaned annually. Your chimneys and vents need to be cleaned too. If any of the equipment is not working properly it needs to be repaired or replaced.

* Take care while utilizing kerosene or gas space heaters in the home. They should never be used in an unvented room.

* Do not use a gas oven to heat your house and do not use gas-powered appliances, like generators, inside.

* Never leave your vehicle idling in a closed garage.

Filed under: Poison