1. Main symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning
Exposure to carbon monoxide gas (CO) can cause symptoms that resemble to flu. They may include headache, nausea, faintness, burning eyes, disorientation, drowsiness and fainting. However, the difference from flu-like symptoms is absence of fever. In severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to brain damage and death.
Children, seniors and individuals with heart or respiratory diseases are especially sensitive to carbon monoxide.
When gas concentration is high, it can poison the body in 5 min. The signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can be hard to reveal. If you think you or someone else may have suffered carbon monoxide poisoning, get into fresh air and dial 911 immediately.
2. Main sources of carbon monoxide in the home
CO is a by-product of incomplete combustion of natural gas, propane, heating oil, kerosene, coal, charcoal, gasoline, wood, or other types of fuels. Examples of fuel burning devices in the home may include hot water heater, kitchen stove, home furnace, fireplace, wood stove, gas or charcoal BBQ, vehicles, etc.
A car left running in an attached garage, a generator operating near an open window, an outdoor gas BBQ operated inside the house, or a fireplace that is not adequately vented – a few scenarios of how you may create dangerous levels of CO unknowingly.
3. Prevention tips for carbon monoxide
Follow these simple tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Install carbon monoxide detectors near each bedroom in your entire house.
- Before starting your vehicle, have your garage door opened.
- Never leave your car running in your attached garage.
- Keep your fireplace in good conditions and have its chimney checked at least once year.
- Have your furnace, water boiler, and any other gas, oil, coal, or wood burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician once a year.
- More on how to make your home safer, read here.