Part Two – Carbon Monoxide - The Silent Killer
Where Does CO Come From?
Inside your home, appliances used for heating and cooking are the most likely sources of carbon monoxide. Vehicles running in attached garages can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
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When these appliances are in good working condition with proper ventilation, lethal carbon monoxide gas is vented outdoors where it quickly disperses. But even the slightest malfunction or misuse of any of these sources can lead to a
And you don’t have to have ancient appliances to have a problem. Today’s more
What Can You do to Protect Your Family?
To be safe, know the possible sources of CO in your home. Keep
Your first line of defense is an annual inspection and regular mainte- nance of your appliances. Contact a licensed contractor or call your local utility company for assistance.
But remember, problems can begin after an inspection is over, like a crack in a furnace heat exchanger, or a leak in a water heater vent or a bird’s nest blocking a flue. That’s why you need the
Part Two – Carbon Monoxide - The Silent Killer
Home Safety Tips
What You Can Do...
•Buy only appliances approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
•Choose
•Make sure appliances are installed according to manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes. Most appliances should be installed by professionals and should be inspected by the proper authority after installation.
•Have the heating system, vents, chimney and flue inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician every year.
•Follow manufacturer’s directions for safe operation of all
•Examine vents and chimneys regularly for improper connections, visible rust or stains.
•Open a window when a fireplace or
•Notice problems that could indicate improper appliance operation:
–Decreasing hot water supply
–Furnace unable to heat house or runs constantly
–Sooting, especially on appliances
–Unfamiliar or burning odor
–Yellow or orange flame
•Be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:
–headaches, dizziness, weakness, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, confusion and disorientation.
•Recognize that CO poisoning may be the cause when family members suffer from
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