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CARBON MONOXIDE
The Silent
Killer
You
can't see, taste or smell carbon monoxide (CO). But that doesn’t
mean it isn’t dangerous. Each year, people sicken and even die as a
result of
inhaling CO, which can be emitted by gas appliances and flues that are
improperly installed or maintained.
The
risk of
carbon monoxide poisoning increases during sleep, when the
victim is unable to recognize the earliest symptoms.
It
can cause:
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Giddiness
• Chest pains
• Breathlessness
• Vision problems
• Stomach pains
• Erratic behavior
If
these symptoms occur and CO may be involved, immediate medical
attention is essential. A blood test a short time after exposure can
diagnose the poisoning. But CO leaves the blood quickly,
so tests may be inaccurate if too much time passes. If you are
experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning, get fresh air
immediately. Go outside. Or open all doors and windows to ventilate the
home. Turn off furnaces, stoves, water heaters and other fuel-burning
appliances. Make sure everyone leaves the premises right away. Anyone
experiencing symptoms should go to an emergency room. Let the physician
know that CO poisoning is possible. Be prepared to answer numerous
questions. The doctor needs to know if other household members have
exhibited similar symptoms and when the symptoms occurred. He will ask
if fuel-burning appliances in the household work properly and are
inspected regularly.
How
can you know if you’re at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning?
Ask
yourself:
1.
Were the appliances properly installed? Only CORGI-registered
engineers should install gas appliances in the home.
2. Is the
appliance working properly? Does the pilot light blow out
frequently? Are there yellow or brown stains around appliance? Is there
more condensation inside windows? These may be
signs that carbon monoxide is present.
3. Is there
sufficient fresh air in the room?
4. Has the
appliance been maintained properly? Like installation,
maintenance should be performed only by CORGI-registered engineers.
5. Does the flue
or chimney get blocked?
If any of these
characteristics are present, contact our office so we can put you in
touch with the proper professional resources.
This
newsletter contains basic information
on the home and general topics of interest. Due to the variations in
homes, individual recommendations require a comprehensive evaluation.
To
reprint this article, please contact our office.
© 1996-2004. All
rights reserved. (ISSO04)
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