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Carbon Monoxide Facts for Every Home and Office



Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless poisonous gas that can be fatal when inhaled. It is known as the "silent killer". It inhibits the blood’s capacity to carry oxygen. Carbon Monoxide occurs when any fuel such as gasoline, propane, natural gas, and wood is burned and is a by-product of incomplete combustion. Basically, if you have fire, you have Carbon Monoxide.

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Any appliance that burns fuel and malfunctions can emit Carbon Monoxide. Furnaces, stoves, clothes dryers, fireplaces, automobiles and generators are examples of items that can emit CO. A blocked chimney or flue is a major cause of Carbon Monoxide in a home. Also a cracked or loose furnace heat exchanger can be the culprit.

Safety Tip

Never leave your car or truck running in the garage. Do not assume opening the garage door will let in enough fresh air. When you start your car or truck, drive it outside immediately. When you return, turn the motor off when you stop. If you suspect there is an exhaust leak, get it fixed right away.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Inhalation are similar to the flu. There is no fever, although the symptoms include dizziness, severe headaches, sleepiness, nausea, fatigue and weakness, and disorientation or confusion. If you experience even mild symptoms, immediately consult a physician.

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Carbon Monoxide can be prevented by properly equipping your home or office with carbon monoxide alarms. The only way to detect Carbon Monoxide is with a Carbon Monoxide Alarm. Also, it is important to have you heating system inspected by a qualified technician and operate all appliances according the manufacturer’s instructions. Never leave your car running in a closed garage or use fuel powered appliances in enclosed attached areas like garages or porches.

Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed on each level of a home or office. If a home has only one carbon monoxide alarm, it should be installed in the main bedroom or in the hallway outside the sleeping area. Make sure to place the alarm at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances. Also, it is not recommended to put the carbon monoxide alarms in dead air spaces or next to a window or door. Test each alarm once a month by pressing the test/reset button. If it is a battery operated alarm, replace the battery at least every six months. Periodically clean the carbon monoxide alarm by vacuuming with a soft brush attachment or wiping with a clean, dry cloth.

Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer. If you follow the recommendations set forth by fire safety professionals, and install carbon monoxide alarms as required, you can keep yourself and your family or co-workers safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.