Safety is a must wherever we are, especially in our house. However, we hear hundreds of lives are lost each year especially during the winter season, due to a deadly gas while they are in their house. This gas is called carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas and poisoning is caused by inhalation. You could not taste or smell this poisonous gas. Aside from that it is also colorless. Carbon monoxide is a derivative of the inadequate burning of fuels. Fuels such as coal, kerosene, oil, wood, gasoline, propane and natural gas.
It is usually caused by faulty forced air furnaces, natural gas ranges and space heaters.
It is very important to know the signs and symptoms of poisoning. The symptoms varies as to the amount of the gas in your surrounding and your exposure time. The symptoms includes headache, heart flutter, nausea, confusion, skin redness, dizziness, sleepiness, chest tightness, weakness and loss of muscle control. Be it known that some of the symptoms are similar to flu and other illnesses.
If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, open all windows and doors immediately. Turn off any source of combustion. Check every family member to be sure that nobody is feeling ill. Immediately have an expert inspect your house heating and venting system. However, if you are suspicious of poisoning of this deadly gas, get out of your house immediately. Get some help and call 911 if you live in the US. Other countries may have a different number to call so be sure you know that number.
The treatment of poisoning is usually 100% oxygen and possible hyperbaric O2. Hyperbaric O2 is a high pressure delivery of oxygen by the bloodstream to the tissues of the body.
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning follow these tips:
Be sure that you have a carbon monoxide detector approved by Underwriters Laboratories in your house. Underwriters Laboratories is an independent organization that evaluates and certifies different products for safety.
Get an annual inspection of your hot water, heating and venting system by a qualified heating professional.
Make sure that all vents are free from any obstructions such as snow, ice and leaves.
Have your chimneys checked to be sure that there are no barriers such the nest of birds and squirrels.
Do not idle your car in your garage. This is to prevent fumes from going inside your house.
Do not ever use a gas oven to heat your house.
If you own a backup generator, install it outside your house.
So be proactive. Take the tips mentioned to make your home safe. Even though carbon monoxide poisoning is deadly it can be prevented. Focus on the prevention.
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