Tips for Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your Home
Carbon monoxide is a gas that is produced whenever any fuel, such as natural gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal, is burned. In combustion engines, such as cars and trucks, carbon monoxide is produced when the fuel is not burned completely. Carbon monoxide is also produced by objects that burn slowly, such as cigarettes. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and can be very dangerous. In fact, carbon monoxide poisoning kills hundreds of people in the United States every year and sends approximately 50,000 more to the hospital. Most carbon monoxide poisoning occurs in the winter because people are more likely to use fuel-burning appliances and leave their cars running in enclosed spaces such as garages. However, carbon monoxide poisoning can occur anytime and in any home. That’s why it’s important to be aware of carbon monoxide’s dangers and take steps to prevent it in your home. Installing Carbon Monoxide Detectors One of the easiest ways to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning is by installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home. These detectors sense the presence of CO and alert occupants using an alarm. There are two basic types of CO detectors: electrochemical and metal oxide. Electrochemical detectors use a chemical...
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