Carbon Monoxide Safety Information
CO Safety Tips
Every year have the heating system, vents, chimney and flue inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician. Always install appliances according to manufacturer’s instructions and adhere to local building codes. Most appliances should be installed by professionals and inspected after installation. Regularly examine vents and chimneys for improper connections, visible rust, or stains, and check for cracks in furnace heat exchangers. Verify the color of flame on pilot lights and burners is blue. A yellow or orange flame is a sign that the fuel is not burning completely. Teach all household members what the alarm sounds like and how to respond.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Initial carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to the flu with no fever and can include dizziness, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting and disorientation. Everyone is susceptible but experts agree that unborn babies, pregnant women, senior citi- zens and people with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable. If symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are experienced seek medical attention immediately. CO poisoning can be determined by a car- boxyhemoglobin test.
The following symptoms are related to CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING and should be discussed with ALL members of the household:
1.Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomit ing, fatigue (often described as
2.Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache,
24 drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Carbon Monoxide Safety Information
3.Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardiorespiratory failure, death.
The above levels of exposure relate to healthy adults. Levels differ for those at high risk. Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can be fatal or cause perma- nent damage and disabilities. Many cases of reported car- bon monoxide poisoning indicate that while victims are aware they are not well, they become so disoriented they are unable to save themselves by either exiting the build- ing, or calling for assistance. Also, young children and household pets may be the first effected. Familiarization with the effects of each level is important.
Fire Safety Information
Escape Plan
Prepare and practice a home escape plan twice a year. Know two ways out of every room (door & window) and identify a meeting place outside the home where every- one will gather once they have exited the residence. When two people have reached the meeting place, one should leave to call 911 while the second person stays to account for additional family members. Establish a rule that once you’re out, you never reenter under any circumstance!
25
