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Carbon Monoxide (CO) Facts for Every Home and Office

Carbon Monoxide otherwise known as Carbon Monoxide is undetectable by humans, since it is colorless and odorless and tasteless. It is a poisonous gas in his fatal if concentrations in the blood exceed certain levels. Hemoglobin in the blood has 200 times, the affinity for Carbon Monoxide, than oxygen. This drastically reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen to your body. Carbon Monoxide is produced from the combustion of any fuel, such as gasoline propane natural gas and wood and is one of the byproducts of combustion. The simple fact is is that whenever you have a fire. There is CO being produced.

Any appliance that burns fuel and malfunctions can emit Carbon Monoxide. Furnaces, stoves, clothes dryers, fireplaces, automobiles and generators are examples of items that can emit Carbon Monoxide. A blocked chimney or flue is a major cause of Carbon Monoxide in a home. Also a cracked or loose furnace heat exchanger can be the culprit.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Inhalation are similar to the flu. There is no fever, although the symptoms include dizziness, severe headaches, sleepiness, nausea, fatigue and weakness, and disorientation or confusion. If you experience even mild symptoms, immediately consult a physician.

Carbon Monoxide can be prevented by properly equipping your home or office with carbon monoxide alarms. The only way to detect Carbon Monoxide is with a Carbon Monoxide detector. Also, it is important to have you heating system inspected by a qualified technician and operate all appliances according the manufacturer's instructions. Never leave your car running in a closed garage or use fuel powered appliances in enclosed attached areas like garages or porches.

Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed on each level of a home or office. If a home has only one carbon monoxide alarm, it should be installed in the main bedroom or in the hallway outside the sleeping area. Make sure to place the detector at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances. Also, it is not recommended to put the carbon monoxide detector in dead air spaces or next to a window or door. Test each alarm once a month by pressing the test/reset button. If it is a battery operated detector, replace the battery at least every six months. Periodically clean the carbon monoxide detector by vacuuming with a soft brush attachment or wiping with a clean, dry cloth.

Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer. If you follow the recommendations set forth by fire safety professionals, and install carbon monoxide alarms as required, you can keep yourself and your family or co-workers safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.

About The Author

Albert Zorn is an NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist. Visit www.firesafetytoday.com for tips advice and the latest information on how to protect your family from fires in the home.

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