Normal Operation
The Peak Level Memory Button
When the Peak button is pressed the unit will display the highest CO concentration measured since the peak memory was last reset or the unit was powered. Levels between 11 and
To Reset the Peak Level Memory…
Step 1. Press the peak level button.
Step 2. With the peak level button still pressed, press the test/reset but- ton for two seconds and release.
The number on the display will turn to “0”. The memory has now been cleared and the alarm will begin monitoring for CO within a few min- utes.
The Effects of CO Exposure
When you breathe carbon monoxide, it enters your bloodstream through your lungs and attaches to red blood cells. These red blood cells, called haemoglobin, carry oxygen throughout your body. CO mol- ecules attach to the red blood cells 200 times faster than oxygen, pre- venting the flow of oxygen to your heart, brain and vital organs. As CO accumulates in your bloodstream, your body becomes starved for oxy- gen. The amount of CO in a person’s body can be measured by a sim- ple blood test, called a “carboxyhaemoglobin level” test .
The early symptoms of CO poisoning are often mistaken for the flu – headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion. Breathing very high concentrations of CO can be lethal in minutes.
Your Family at Risk for CO Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is the number one cause of poisoning deaths. While anyone is susceptible, experts agree that unborn babies, small chil- dren, senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable to CO and are at the greatest risk for death or serious injury.
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