Its officially fall which means the weather will start getting colder. This is the time of year when we start thinking about changing from our AC to heaters. This is also a great time to think about carbon monoxide safety.
Carbon monoxide, also known as CO, is called the “Invisible Killer” because it is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. More than 150 people in the US die every year from accidental nonfire-related CO poisoning associated with consumer products. Some of these products include faulty, improperly used or incorrectly vented fuel burning appliances such as furnaces, stoves, water heaters and fireplaces.
The signs of symptoms of CO poisoning include:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Death at higher concentrations of CO
Here are some safety tips from your Gallup Fire Department to prevent you or your family from being exposed to CO.
1. Have any fuel fires appliance in your home properly maintained and inspected yearly.
2. Have the filters in heating systems cleaned or changed regularly.
3. Install a CO alarm in your home and test it monthly.
4. If you think you or your family has been exposed to CO, evacuate the house immediately and call 911.
If you would like additional information on CO safety, please call the Gallup Fire Department Fire Prevention Office at 505-726-5448.
Original source found here.
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