During inspections, do you find that most homes have CO detectors installed properly?
Do’s and Don’ts of CO Poisoning
After an inspection, here are a few great tips you can provide to the homeowners.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. Malfunctioning or improperly used fuel-burning appliances and idling cars are typically the cause of CO related deaths and poisonings. Infants, elderly people, and people with anemia or with a history of heart or respiratory disease can be especially susceptible to CO poisoning.
To prevent CO poisoning in your home:
Do:
• Have your gas, wood, kerosene and wood burning appliances inspected annually
• Vent appliance fumes outside
• Have emergency contact numbers easily accessible
If your CO alarm does sound:
• Make sure it is your CO detector and not your smoke detector.
• Check to see if anyone is experiencing symptoms of poisoning.
• If someone is experiencing symptoms, get them out of the house immediately and seek medical attention. Tell the doctor that you suspect CO poisoning.
• If no one is feeling symptoms, ventilate the home with fresh air and turn off all potential sources of CO.
• Have a qualified technician inspect your fuel-burning appliances and chimneys.
Don’t:
• Leave an idling car in the garage, even if the door is open.
• Use a gas oven to heat your home.
• Sleep in a room with an unvented gas heater.
And most importantly DO purchase a carbon monoxide detector and DON’T ignore symptoms.
For more information on protecting your family, visit www.epa.gov.
