Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning can happen within a matter of minutes and is responsible for more deaths than any other single poison. This odorless, colorless poison can hurt you slowly in low levels. It can cause permanent neurological dysfunctions in moderate levels and it may be lethal in higher levels. CO is produced whenever such as the following is burned:
Gas
Oil
Kerosene
Wood or charcoal
The amount of CO produced while using fuel-burning appliances is usually not harmful. It becomes hazardous when appliances are used improperly or not functioning adequately.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious threat that people need to be informed about. By educating ourselves on the dangers of CO, we can significantly reduce the health risk as well as save lives.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Appliances Inspection
Routinely at the beginning of every heating season home owners should have their fuel burning appliances checked by a qualified technician. Appliances deteriorate with time and can be a health risk to those who live in the home.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detector
Protection against this deadly poison is as easy as installing a simple carbon monoxide detector in your home or office. In addition to having your appliances inspected, those using fuel-burning appliances should have their homes equipped with carbon monoxide detectors to provide added peace of mind. A CO tester should be placed on every floor in the home to provide the best protection.