Carbon Monoxide Facts for Every Home and Office

Carbon Monoxide Facts for Every Home and Office By Albert Zorn, NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist

The danger that CO poses to humans cannot be trivialized. Death can result when exposed to excessive amounts of carbon monoxide. It is virtually undetectable by human beings, since it is a tasteless odorless and colorless gas. It is known as a silent killer and inhibits the blood's ability to carry oxygen. CO is produced when combustion is present. Any burning fuels such as gasoline propane natural gas or would produce is CO, and it is a byproduct of incomplete combustion. Any fire should be considered a source of CO.

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.

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.

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 alarm 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.

CO 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.

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