How to protect against the silent killer
Temperatures have begun to dip as we prepare for winter storms. Whether your area is prone to heavy winds or milder winter temperatures, it is important to be prepared for what winter brings.
This year's colder weather has already brought an increase in the number of carbon monoxide (CO) incidents across the country. While this poisonous gas can impact individuals at any time of the year, 50 per cent of CO poisonings occur between November and February, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
The Silent Killer
A colourless and odourless gas, carbon monoxide is known as "the silent killer," and impossible to detect without a CO alarm. Estimates from the NFPA suggest that there are more than 80,000 CO incidents per year. What's more, CO poisoning is the number one cause of accidental poisoning in the United States according to the Journal of the American Medical
Association.
CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose - often until it's too late. Symptoms mimic those of many other illnesses, including nausea, headaches, dizziness, weakness, chest pain and vomiting. In more severe poisoning cases, people may experience disorientation or unconsciousness, or suffer long-term neurological disabilities, cardiorespiratory failure or death.
Carbon monoxide comes from any fuelburning device, such as a furnace, boiler, stove, car, generator, fireplace, or cooking sources using coal, wood, petroleum products or other fuels emitting CO as a byproduct of combustion. If attached garages with doors, ductwork or ventilation shafts are connected to a living space, they can also be potential sources for CO.
Your Plan of Action
Home maintenance is important to help keep your loved ones safe. This includes scheduling annual professional inspections for any fuel-burning appliances, such as the furnace, oven, fireplace and dryer.
The most critical step to ensure your home is protected is to have a CO alarm. By providing protection against the deadly gas, CO alarms can make the difference between life and death. A survey from First Alert found that 40 per cent of Americans do not own a single working CO alarm.
"Carbon monoxide alarms belong in every household," said Tarsila Wey, director of marketing for First Alert. "If your home does not have an alarm, purchasing at least one today is the best step you can take toward keeping loved ones safe from the deadly gas."
The NFPA recommends installing CO alarms on every level of the home, including the basement, and within 4.5 metres of all sleeping areas. They can be placed high or low in the room as the deadly gas is dispersed evenly within the air. Checking alarms regularly and following manufacturer instructions for alarms and all home equipment play an equally vital role.
All CO alarms in your home should be battery-powered or hardwired with battery backup. To help ensure your family is protected, First Alert offers a variety of alarms. Families can choose an alarm that best suits their needs, from a tabletop alarm with a 10-year sealed battery and digital display to see detected CO levels in parts per million to a combination smoke and CO alarm for 2-in-1 protection.
Most states have laws requiring CO alarms in the home. To learn more about your local requirements, visit https://www. firstalert.com/community/legislation/.
If your CO alarm sounds, immediately go outside for fresh air and call 911. To learn more about CO safety or other home safety tips, visit https://www.firstalert.com/ carbonmonoxide/.