THE QUIETEST KILLER: CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)
YEAR AFTER YEAR, MORE UNINTENTIONAL DEATHS ARE CAUSED BECAUSE OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is extremely poisonous and can kill within minutes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 500 people die annually while as many as 20,000 people visit emergency rooms for exposure primarily from poorly-maintained heating systems or gas stoves and gas-powered generators used for heat or power during storms.
HOW IS CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) PRODUCED?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced by the incomplete burning of various fuels, including coal, wood, charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane, and natural gas. “Most products and equipment powered by internal combustion engine-powered equipment such as portable generators, cars, lawn mowers, and power washers also produce CO” reports the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
ACTIONS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME AND FAMILY
DO HAVE YOUR HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM SERVICED
Consult Bryant Dealers. As your experienced partners, they will schedule a technician to inspect your heating system and detect any cracks or leaks that may cause carbon monoxide gas to enter your home.
DO INSTALL A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR
Homeowners that have carbon monoxide detectors are making a good investment to protect their families. It’s particularly important that you have carbon monoxide detectors near where people sleep at night. The worst location for a carbon monoxide detector is in the box without a battery. Most importantly, when you go to purchase a detector for your home, make sure that it is specifically designed for carbon monoxide detection and it’s not just a smoke detector. The other important thing is that it is battery operated. If it is an A/C operated detector, it’s important that it also has a battery back-up. Your Bryant of Florida will put your mind at ease and give your family a sense of security by asking your Bryant Technician about a carbon monoxide detector demonstration next time you schedule a maintenance call. Bryant technicians are armed with instructional flyers that are easy to follow. All you need to do is ask. It is always helpful to learn the carbon monoxide readings in your home, which above 10 are considered problematic; and lethal at 100.
For more information about carbon monoxide poisoning prevention visit the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/co/guidelines.htm