More attention is given to carbon monoxide dangers in the fall and winter because it is well known that malfunctioning furnaces can be a source of CO poisoning. However, CO monitoring should be a year-round practice, as many other home items and activities can emit carbon monoxide.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Exposure to the gas can initially cause dizziness, headache, fatigue, confusion and nausea. Some also experience chest pain and vomiting. As you can see, these symptoms are similar to other, less serious ailments. Unfortunately, if exposure continues, the poisoning can prove fatal.
Carbon Monoxide Sources
The following are common home items or activities that can release carbon monoxide.
Fuel-burning equipment: includes gas-powered lawn and garden equipment, propane stoves, gas grills, generators and fuel-burning portable heaters.
Fires: includes campfires, charcoal grills and improperly vented fireplaces and woodstoves.
Vehicles: includes boats, automobiles and motorcycles.
Reducing Your Risk of CO Poisoning
Never operate fuel-powered equipment in an enclosed or semi-enclosed area. Many believe it is safe to operate gas-powered tools in a garage, for example. This is not the case even if the door is left open. Carbon monoxide levels can still rise quickly to dangerous levels.
Do not use fuel-powered appliances, such as propane stoves, inside tents. Tent fabric is denser than you might think – too dense to allow CO to dissipate.
Never leave your car or any other vehicle idling in the garage. It is particularly tempting to warm up the car in the garage during cold weather. This can be a fatal mistake. Carbon monoxide levels can build up not only in the garage but also in the home, if the garage is attached. The gas easily seeps through cracks and crevices to permeate the home.
Install CO detectors on each floor of your home. Make sure you mount them according to directions from the manufacturer and that you test them at least twice a year.
For more information about CO monitoring and other home safety and comfort issues, please contact Air Assurance. We are located in Broken Arrow and look forward to serving you.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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