Now that winter is here and we are getting ready to celebrate the holiday season, this is a very good time to review some home safety tips pertaining to carbon monoxide. Make sure you and your family stay safe and warm now and throughout the year.
I hope that everyone reading this is up to code and has not only installed smoke alarm/detectors in their home, but also carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide is odorless which makes it extremely dangerous. Most of the carbon monoxide fatalities and/or poisoning could have been avoided by taking a few simple precautions.
Here are few safety tips to help you reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning:
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Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors annually |
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Inspect your chimney, flue and heating system annually and have them cleaned by a professional |
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Check to make sure no critters have taken up residence in your chimney and remove any debris like leaves, nests or branches |
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Clear blocked exhaust flues - Especially SNOW or ice |
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Never operate gas powered engines inside an enclosed area (garage or basement) |
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Do not leave a vehicle running in the garage even with the door open |
SIGNS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING:
A few of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can easily be confused with flu symptoms, or other illnesses and can become more severe and potentially fatal in a very short period of time.
- Shortness of breath
- Mild nausea
- Mild Headache
- Dizziness
- Unconsciousness
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, act swiftly and be careful as high levels of
carbon monoxide gases can become combustible.
Check this link to test your carbon monoxide IQ. How did you do?
Carbon Monoxide is the Silent Killer - How to Stay Safe by Judy Jennings
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