Sunday, March 13, 2011

SPRING FORWARD - The CARBON MONOXIDE Detector

Everyone knows that we should have smoke alarms or smoke detectors in our homes, as a basic part of fire safety. BUT - how many of you realize the importance of the carbon monoxide detector? and how many of yo knew that it was a NEW law in WISCONSIN to have one?


It went into effect on February 1, 2011 that Carbon monoxide detectors are required on all levels (including basement, excluding attics) of one and two family homes in Wisconsin.  There's no fine for not complying, just like with smoke detectors, but why take a chance?  Do the the safe thing and install the detectors if you have not already done so.

 Get in the habit of checking them on  
SPRING FORWARD and FALL BACK days!

The Importance Of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Overview

Carbon monoxide (sometimes referred to as CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning material containing carbon. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause brain damage and death. You can't see it, smell it, or taste it; but carbon monoxide can kill you.
  • Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America. This odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas is known as the "Silent Killer." The Centers for Disease Control estimates that carbon monoxide poisoning claims nearly 500 lives, and causes more than 15,000 visits to hospital emergency departments annually.
  • Carbon monoxide is produced by common household appliances. When not properly ventilated, carbon monoxide emitted by these appliances can build up. See below for a list of appliances that can emit carbon monoxide.
  • Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning such as headaches, nausea and fatigue, are often mistaken for the flu because the deadly gas goes undetected in a home. Prolonged exposure can lead to brain damage and even death.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Causes

Carbon monoxide is formed when organic compounds burn. The most common sources are motor vehicle exhaust, smoke from fires, engine fumes, and nonelectric heaters. Carbon monoxide poisoning is often associated with malfunctioning or obstructed exhaust systems and with suicide attempts. 
Sources of carbon monoxide:
  • Gas water heaters

  • Kerosene space heaters

  • charcoal grills

  • Propane heaters and stoves

  • Gasoline and diesel powered generators

  • Cigarette smoke

  • Propane-fueled forklifts

  • Gasoline powered concrete saws

  • Indoor tractor pulls

  • Any boat with an engine

  • Spray paint, solvents, degreasers, and paint removers
Risks for exposure to carbon monoxide include:
  • Children riding in the back of enclosed pickup trucks (particularly high risk)

  • Industrial workers at pulp mills, steel foundries, and plants producing formaldehyde or coke (a hard grey fuel)

  • Personnel at fire scenes

  • Using heating sources or electric generators during power outages

  • Those working indoors with combustion engines or combustible gases

  • Swimming near or under the stern or swim-step of a boat with the boat engine running

  • Back drafting when a boat is operated at a high bow angle

  • Mooring next to a boat that is running a generator or engine

  • Improper boat ventilation

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms

Exposure to carbon monoxide is most commonly accompanied by the following symptoms:
  • Nausea
  • Flu-like symptoms, fatigue
  • Shortness of breath on exertion
  • Impaired judgment
  • Confusion

When to Seek Medical Care

If you have any of the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go to a hospital emergency department, particularly if several people in the household are affected, or if pets are affected as well.


Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Treatment


Self-Care at Home

  • Move all family members and pets to fresh air away from the source of carbon monoxide (CO).
  • No home therapy is available for carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • You must seek medical care in a hospital emergency department.

edical Treatment

  • The treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning is high-dose oxygen, usually using a facemask attached to an oxygen reserve bag.
  • Carbon monoxide levels in the blood may be periodically checked until they are low enough to safely send you home.
  • In severe poisoning, if available, a hyperbaric pressure chamber may be used to give even higher doses of oxygen.
  • It is important to find the source of the carbon monoxide. Your local fire department or public service company will help find the source of carbon monoxide and make sure the building is safe.

Prevention

Your best protection ( and now it's law in Wisconsin) is to install a carbon monoxide alarm on each level of your home or boat as your first line of defense. According to the National Fire Protection Association some 93% of homes have smoke alarms, yet the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that only 15% have carbon monoxide alarms. A carbon monoxide monitor with an audible alarm works much like a home smoke alarm and beeps loudly when the sensors detect carbon monoxide.

  • If the alarm sounds, evacuate the building. People who have symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning should seek emergency medical care. Call the fire department or public service company to investigate.

  • Inspect your home for hazards.

    • Your home heating system, chimney, and flue must be inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician every year. Keep chimneys clear of bird and squirrel nests, leaves, and residue to ensure proper ventilation.

    • Be sure your furnace and other appliances, such as gas ovens, ranges, and cook tops, are inspected for adequate ventilation.

    • Do not burn charcoal inside your house (even in the fireplace). Have gas fireplaces inspected each fall to ensure the pilot light burns safely.

    • Do not operate gasoline-powered engines in confined areas such as garages or basements. Do not leave your car, mower, or other vehicle running in an attached garage, even with the door open.

    • Do not block or seal shut exhaust flues or ducts for appliances such as water heaters, ranges, and clothes dryers.

     Do the the safe thing and install the detectors if you have not already done so.  

    Get in the habit of checking them on SPRING FORWARD and FALL BACK days!

    Courtesy of  Lisa Bear  RE/MAX Realty Center





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