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Keep Your Family Safe from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
by AJ Fanter
Refacing Cabinet Columnist
Would it surprise you to learn that a silent, invisible, scentless killer could be lurking in your home? Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that is produced whenever any fuel (gas, oil, kerosene, wood or charcoal) is burned.
When properly used and maintained, the appliances and devices that use these of fuels produce a non-hazardous amount of carbon monoxide. However, if these appliances aren't maintained, vented, or functioning properly, dangerous levels of carbon monoxide can build up in your home. That's why it is important to be familiar with the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and take precautions to safeguard your family.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – The Symptoms
Exposure to low level carbon monoxide poisoning produces symptoms that are similar to the flu including shortness of breath, mild nausea, and mild headaches. At moderate levels of carbon monoxide exposure, your family may get severe headaches, become nauseated, and experience mental confusion and dizziness. You may even faint. If exposure persists, you can become quite ill and even die.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - Getting Help
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, the best thing to do is to open all the doors and windows of your home and leave the house immediately. You should then go to the nearest emergency room and report your symptoms.
Keeping Your Family Safe From CO Poisoning
According to the EPA the most important things you can do to keep your family safe from carbon monoxide poisoning is to have all of your fuel-burning appliances (furnace, fireplace, heaters, stove, dryers, etc) inspected and cleaned by a qualified professional at the start of each heating season. They will not only be able to verify that everything is functioning correctly, they can test to be sure your appliances are venting properly. In addition, you may want to consider installing a carbon monoxide alarm as an added safeguard to keep your family safe. However, don't forget, while a carbon monoxide detector is an important safety tool that can save your life, the proper maintenance of your appliances is still essential.
Source
About the Author
AJ Fanter is a freelance writer based in Reno, NV.
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