Carbon Monoxide Safety
General CO Information
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odorless, and tasteless poison gas that can be fatal when inhaled. CO inhibits the blood’s capacity to carry oxygen.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
The following symptoms are related to carbon monoxide poisoning and should be discussed with ALL members of the household:
1.Mild Exposure: Headaches, running nose, sore eyes, often described as
2.Medium Exposure: Dizziness, drowsiness, vomiting.
3.Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, brain damage, 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 permanent damage and disabilities. Many cases of reported carbon monoxide poisoning indicate that w h i l e victims are aware they are not well, they become so disoriented they are unable to save themselves by e i t h e r exiting the building, or calling for assistance. Also, young children and household pets may be the first effected. Familiarization with the effects of each level is important.
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 citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable. I f symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning a re experienced seek medical attention immediately. CO poisoning can be determined by a carboxyhemoglobin test.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
The CO sensor meets the alarm response time requirements as follows:
At 70 PPM, the unit must alarm within
NOTE:This carbon monoxide alarm is designed to detect carbon monoxide gas from ANY source of combustion. It is NOT designed to detect any other gas.
Fire departments, most utility companies and HVAC contractors will perform CO inspections, some may charge for this service. It’s advisable to inquire about any applicable fees prior to having the service performed. Kidde will not pay for, or reimburse, the owner or user of this product, for any repair or dispatch calls related to the alarm sounding.
Possible Sources of CO
CO can be produced when burning any fossil fuel, such as gasoline, propane, natural gas, oil and wood. It can be produced by any
•Furnaces, gas ranges/stoves, gas clothes dryers, water heaters, portable fuel burning space heaters, fireplaces,
•Blocked chimneys or flues, back drafting and changes in air pressure, corroded or disconnected vent pipes, loose or cracked furnace exchangers.
•Vehicles and other combustion engines running in an open or closed garage, attached or near a home.
•Charcoal/gas grill or hibachis in an enclosed area.
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