What is carbon monoxide?

People can die within minutes from the odorless, poisonous gas called carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. If appliances that burn fuel are maintained and used properly, the amount of carbon monoxide made is frequently not hazardous. Every year hundreds of people die from carbon monoxide poisoning cause by malfunctioning or improperly used appliances. Even more people die from carbon monoxide produced from idling cars. Victims are overcome before they can get help because the carbon monoxide builds up so rapidly.

The effects caused by inhaling carbon monoxide are:

*Decreases the blood's capacity to carry oxygen;
* Can cause permanent brain damage;
* Can cause chest pains or heart attacks in people with heart disease.

Carbon monoxide poisoning signs?

* Headache
* Dizziness
* Fatigue
* Weakness
* Confusion
* Nausea

Steps to take for carbon monoxide poisoning avoidance.

* Never burn charcoal inside homes, tents, campers, vans, trucks, garages, or mobile homes. The fireplace in your home is not to be used to burn charcoal.
*Always use gasoline powered equipment outdoors. When using gasoline powered equipment "adequate ventilation" is essential. Since determining how much ventilation is "adequate" it is therefor always best to use this kind of equipment outdoors!
*Never ever use a gas oven to heat your home, not even for a short time.
* Never idle a car in a garage, even when the garage door is open.
*Unvented gas or kerosene heaters should not be used in a room you sleep in.
*Ensure that chimneys and flues are unblockedand in good condition.
*Trained professionals need to regularly examine oil and gas appliances as well as wood stoves every year.
* Carbon monoxide warning devices can provide additional protection, but should not supplant the other prevention steps.

If you think that someone has been poisoned by carbon monoxide, what should you do?

*Immediately move the person to fresh air.
*Transport the person to the emergency room and inform doctors that you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.

To find out more First Alert Carbon Monoxide Detectors