It’s been called the silent killer. Carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas toxic to humans and animals, was the cause of 20 emergency calls in Westerville in 2019.
Carbon monoxide, known by the chemical symbol CO, acts as poison once inhaled. It attaches to the hemoglobin in the red blood cells, which carries oxygen throughout the body. When CO attaches, it blocks the oxygen the body must have, leading to hypoxia. CO is a byproduct of incomplete combustion. Any fuel burning device may produce dangerous levels of CO gas. In the home, heating and cooking equipment are potential sources of CO. Vehicles, generators and lawn equipment can also produce dangerous levels of CO.
The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and confusion. High levels of CO ingestion can cause loss of consciousness and death. The health effects of CO exposure can vary from person to person depending upon the level and length of exposure, as well as each individual’s health condition.
Carbon monoxide can only be detected with a CO detector/alarm. These detectors are available in plug-in, battery-powered or hardwired models. Before buying a CO detector, check to make sure it is listed with Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL), standard 2034, or there is information on the package that states it is UL approved. Install a CO detector in the hallway near every sleeping area of the home. CO detectors should be replaced every five years. If the CO detector alarms, call 9-1-1. If you have any symptoms or feel ill, leave the home or building and await the Fire Division’s arrival.\
The Fire Division recommends the following safety tips to avoid a CO related emergency
- Have your heating system, including chimneys and vents, inspected and serviced annually.
- Ensure chimney flues are completely opened when fireplaces are in use.
- Never use a gas appliance to heat your home.
- Do not use unvented, fuel-burning space heaters indoors. All fuel-burning appliances should be fully vented to the outdoors.
- Never use a gas or charcoal grill inside your home or in a garage.
- Never use a generator inside homes, garages or crawl spaces, even when using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation.
- Never leave a vehicle, snow blower or lawn mower running in an attached garage, even when the garage door is open.
By knowing the symptoms of CO poisoning and following these safety tips, you can protect yourself and your family from the dangers of CO exposure.
