Carbon Monoxide can be a deadly gas in Katy and everywhere else

Carbon Monoxide can be a deadly gas in Katy and everywhere else

Every winter we all see a number of reports in the press of Carbon Monoxide poisoning and this year is no different. Listed below are salient points all of us should be aware of regarding this dangerous gas as it applies to our homes:

·        Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas which is lighter than air. The gas can be very toxic to both humans and animals if the victim is subjected to high concentration levels.  The gas is produced in natural animal breakdown but this type of carbon monoxide gas is in very low concentrations and should not harm anyone or thing.

·        CO is produced when there is not sufficient oxygen available to create Carbon Dioxide when carbon containing mixtures are dissolved.

·        All of us need to know the symptoms of CO poisoning such as sudden headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea and sudden fatigue.

·        If you suspect CO poisoning is occurring then immediately phone 911 and leave the location where you are at.

·        Every home should have at least one CO detector. Batteries should be checked on a regular basis and replaced when needed. The sound given off when the battery is low is extremely distributing.

·        All home heating systems should be serviced at least once a year by a qualified technician and this includes vents, chimneys and flues.

·        Check all fuel burning types of appliances such as generators space heaters and etc. are properly maintained and working in the manner they should.

·        Don’t warm up your car in a garage or any enclosed space where the door is closed. I also believe that you should crack your window in the car when you are sitting at one spot for a long period of time and not driving forward. Don’t leave children or pets alone in an auo with the motor running and all the windows totally closed.