Part Two – Carbon Monoxide - The Silent Killer

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, poisonous gas creat- ed when any fuel is burned – gasoline, propane, natural gas, oil, wood, coal, and even tobacco. When combustion air is limited, more CO is produced. Serious problems can develop when combustion by-products are not properly vented outside the house.

You’ve probably heard about carbon monoxide poisoning in the news recently. It’s a problem receiving more attention because groups like the American Lung Association and the Consumer Product Safety Commission have made it a priority to warn the pub- lic about the dangers of this deadly household poison.

What are 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 hemoglobin, carry oxygen throughout your body. Carbon monoxide molecules attach to the red blood cells 200 times faster than oxygen, preventing the flow of oxygen to your heart, brain and vital organs. As carbon monoxide accumulates in your bloodstream, your body becomes starved for oxygen. The amount of carbon monoxide in a person’s body can be measured by a simple blood test, called a “carboxyhemoglobin level” test.

The early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistak- en for the flu – headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion.

Breathing very high concentrations of carbon monoxide can be lethal in minutes. Breathing low concentrations over time is dangerous, too. Long term exposure to low levels could cause permanent heart and brain damage.

Could Your Family be at Risk for CO Poisoning? Carbon monoxide is the number one cause of poisoning deaths in the United States. According to the Mayo Clinic, at least 10,000 Americans are affected by CO poisoning each year.

While anyone is susceptible, experts agree that unborn babies, small children, senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory prob- lems are especially vulnerable to CO and are at the greatest risk for death or serious injury.

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.

Part Two – Carbon Monoxide - The Silent Killer

A by-product of combustion, carbon monoxide can be a potential problem from a number of common sources – automobiles, furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves, charcoal grills, gas ranges, space heaters and portable generators.

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 build-up of carbon monoxide in your home that can become deadly before you’d even know it’s there.

And you don’t have to have ancient appliances to have a problem. Today’s more energy-efficient, airtight home designs can trap CO-pol- luted air inside where it can quickly build to lethal levels.

What Can You do to Protect Your Family?

To be safe, know the possible sources of CO in your home. Keep fuel-burning appliances and their chimneys and vents in good work- ing condition. Learn the early symptoms of exposure, and if you sus- pect carbon monoxide poisoning, move outside to fresh air and get emergency help. A blood test can confirm that CO caused the prob- lem.

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. Other sources are nearly impossible to detect: even a change in the air pressure outside can turn a normally safe situation deadly. That’s why you need the 24-hour protection provided by a CO alarm.

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Nighthawk KN-COP-C warranty Part Two Carbon Monoxide The Silent Killer, What is Carbon Monoxide?, Where Does CO Come From?
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KN-COP-HW, KN-COP-DP, KN-COP-C specifications

The Nighthawk KN-COP series, which includes the KN-COP-HW, KN-COP-DP, and KN-COP-C models, represents a significant advancement in the realm of smoke and carbon monoxide detection technology. Designed with user safety and convenience in mind, these models integrate innovative features to ensure reliable performance in residential and commercial spaces.

One of the standout characteristics of the KN-COP series is their dual-sensor technology. This feature enhances detection capabilities by incorporating both photoelectric and ionization sensors. The photoelectric sensor is particularly effective in detecting smoldering fires, while the ionization sensor quickly identifies flaming fires. This combination allows the devices to respond accurately to a variety of fire scenarios, thereby increasing overall safety.

The KN-COP-HW model also boasts a sleek, modern design that fits seamlessly into any decor while being functional. It features a voice alarm system that clearly announces the type of danger detected, whether it's smoke or carbon monoxide, ensuring that users can react appropriately without confusion. Additionally, an LCD display provides real-time updates about CO levels, temperature, and battery status.

Another notable feature across the KN-COP lineup is the ease of installation and maintenance. Each unit is equipped with a battery backup, ensuring continuous operation even during power outages. The user-friendly design includes a simple test/silence button, making periodic checks and silencing false alarms hassle-free.

The KN-COP-DP variant elevates safety with advanced connectivity options. This model can be interconnected wirelessly with other Nighthawk units, allowing for synchronized alerts throughout larger spaces. This interconnected network provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring that everyone within the building is alerted in case of a potential emergency.

For users looking for a compact solution, the KN-COP-C model is engineered for optimal performance within smaller spaces. It retains the essential features of its counterparts but in a form factor that is easier to integrate into compact living environments.

Overall, the Nighthawk KN-COP series exemplifies a commitment to quality, safety, and innovative technology. Whether it's the homeowner seeking peace of mind or a business aiming to protect its assets, these detectors serve as a formidable first line of defense against the dual threats of smoke and carbon monoxide, ensuring that safety always comes first.
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