According to a study done by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, January is the leading month for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. As temperatures drop, we tend to use more natural gas, charcoal, gasoline, wood, and other fuels to keep us warm. Our ovens, heaters, and other devices put out trace amounts of carbon monoxide when they are working correctly—but if they are out of order, CO levels can rise proving to be life-threatening.
CO poisoning is entirely preventable, so before you cozy up to the fireplace tonight, you should know what carbon monoxide is and how you can protect yourself and your family against it.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide, known as “the silent killer,” is an odorless, colorless gas formed by the incomplete combustion of carbon. When natural gas, kerosene, oil, coal, and propane do not burn completely, CO is present. The fumes of cars, stoves, furnaces, grills, fireplaces, and other small engines all produce small amounts of CO. The buildup of this gas is poisonous to anyone who breathes it in causing life-threatening conditions.
How can I avoid CO poisoning?
The best thing you can do to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning is to install CO detectors throughout your home. Just like fire alarms, you should have CO detectors on every level and in all sleeping areas. Check and test your monitors every month by pressing the test button and changing the batteries when needed.
Some other ways to protect you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning are:
- Have a qualified technician inspect your water heater, heating system, and other fuel-burning appliances at least once a year
- Fireplaces should be checked as well and cleaned regularly
- Don’t leave a running car in a closed garage—especially if it is attached to your home
- Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when operating generators and be sure to set it up at least 20 feet from your home.
What do I do if my CO monitor alarm goes off?
Immediately evacuate your home if the signal on your CO detector goes off. Carbon monoxide poisoning doesn’t take long to start affecting your health. Open as many doors and windows as you can to begin the process of airing out your home and getting fresh air. Call 911 or your local gas company to inspect the problem. Seek medical attention immediately if you or anyone in the house is demonstrating flu-like symptoms. Do not re-enter your home until the fire department has cleared it.
Protecting your home and family
Carbon monoxide poisoning is serious, and it can affect you and your loved ones at any time. If you don’t already have a carbon monoxide monitor in your home, it’s time to think about protecting your home and family. EPS is committed to life safety and providing you with the most effective and efficient products on the market. Our fire alarm systems use photoelectric smoke detectors with all-in-one options to combine carbon monoxide detection—meaning we’ve got you covered.
For more information about EPS’ dedication to life safety, or to talk to a specialist about how to upgrade your carbon monoxide monitors, click the link below!