Any appliance that burns natural gas, propane gas, fuel oil, wood or coal is capable of producing carbon monoxide (CO).
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas which is odorless, colorless and tasteless but is very toxic.
If your Smith boiler is not working properly, or is not vented properly, dangerous levels of CO may accumulate. CO is lighter than air and thus may travel throughout the building. Brief exposure to high concentrations of CO, or prolonged exposure to lesser amounts of CO, may result in carbon monoxide poisoning.
Exposure can be fatal and exposure to high concentrations may result in the sudden onset of symptoms including unconsciousness.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include: |
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dizziness | vision problems | shortness of breath |
headaches | loss of muscle control | unclear thinking |
nausea | weakness | unconsciousness |
The symptoms of CO poisoning are often confused with those of influenza, and the highest incidence of poisoning occurs at the onset of cold weather or during flu season. A victim may not experience any symptoms, only one symptom or a few symptoms. Suspect the presence of carbon monoxide if symptoms tend to disappear when you leave your home.
The following signs may indicate the presence of carbon monoxide:
•Hot gases from appliance, venting system, pipes, or chimney escaping into the living space.
•Flames coming out around the appliance.
•Yellow colored flames in the appliance.
•Stale or smelly air.
•The presence of soot or carbon in or around the appliance.
•Very high unexplained humidity inside the building.
If any of the symptoms CO poisoning occur, or if any of the signs of carbon monoxide are present, vacate the premises immediately and contact a qualfied heating service company, the gas company or the fire department.
To reduce the risk of CO poisoning, have your heating system “tuned up” by a licensed heating contractor or the gas company
-preferably before each heating season. Also have the service company check your chimney or vent pipes for blockage. Your home should also be adequately ventilated, particularly if you have insulated your home.
Only qualified, licensed service contractors should perform work on your Smith Boiler.
WARNING
Install, operate and maintain unit in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions to avoid exposure to fuel substances or substances from incomplete combustion which can cause death or serious illness. The State of California has determined that these substances may cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Also, install and service this product to avoid exposure to airborne particles of glasswool fibers and/or ceramic fibers known to the State of California to cause cancer through inhalation.
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