According to the CDC, approximately 50,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency room each year due to accidental CO poisoning. CO poisoning is entirely preventable. Mike Holmes of National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) offers homeowners invaluable tips on how to protect their families from this deadly gas.
Carbon Monoxide is virtually invisible
Carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled making it virtually invisible. The only way to catch this silent killer is with an electronic sensor.
Most homes have at least one appliance that burns fuel (wood, propane, gas, natural gas). All fuel-burning machines produce carbon monoxide. These appliances are designed to be vented to the outside, preventing carbon monoxide from mixing with the air we breathe.,
Heating systems
Over time, venting systems may develop cracks or leaks, which can poison the air we breathe with carbon monoxide. Red blood cells take in carbon monoxide faster than oxygen. This reduces oxygen in the bloodstream, causing suffocation. The more carbon monoxide inhaled, the worse the symptoms.
Industry standards
Industry standards require home detectors to not alarm until after CO levels in your home reach 30 ppm for a period of no less than 30 days. The World Health Organization, however, recommends much stricter limits; no more than 6 ppm for no longer than 24 hours.
NCOAA
The National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association (NCOAA) is partnering with families to make homes safer. Follow these four simple steps today and feel confident that your family is protected from carbon monoxide:
- Install a wall-mounted CO detector near each fuel-burning appliance to protect your family from large CO leaks. Test your wall-mounted CO detectors once a month by pushing the button. Replace all detectors when they are 10 years old or if they do not sound when tested.
- Make sure your appliances are tested annually by a licensed technician. Insist the technician use a handheld CO detector to ensure CO levels are well below the WHO recommended 6 ppm.
- If you suspect CO poisoning or if anyone in your family is experiencing CO poisoning symptoms, call 911 for medical attention. If you find a leak and anyone in your family has been experiencing a chronic health issue, talk to your doctor about CO poisoning and insist previous conditions and diagnoses are reevaluated.
- Consider investing in a portable CO detector if anyone in your family travels, has a chronic health condition, or uses yard equipment or power tools.
Remember to test appliances frequently, fix all leaks, and aim for a 0 ppm target.
If you suspect CO poisoning, don’t wait. Protect your family today. In most areas, your utility provider will come out at no charge to check your appliances to ensure your home is CO safe.
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