BARTOW - (June 11, 2009) – Often called “The Silent Killer”, carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels burn incompletely. Almost anything in your home that gives off heat by burning fuel (gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) could potentially put off variable levels of CO.
It is imperative that dwellings are equipped with carbon monoxide alarms designed to provide you with an early warning of accumulated levels of CO in your home. These alarms should be installed in a central location outside of each sleeping area. Be sure you and your family know the difference between the sounds of the two alarms (smoke and carbon monoxide) and the appropriate actions that should follow each activation. Carbon monoxide alarms are not intended to replace smoke alarms.
Test your CO alarms at least once a month, and replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle, generator, or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if the garage doors are open.
Here are some things to remember in the event your CO alarm should sound:
• If it is a battery-powered intermittent alarm, check the battery.
• If it is a steady alarm or you are unable to determine, evacuate the dwelling. Do not re-enter until the responding agency says it is ok.
• Report the CO alarm warning by calling the appropriate phone number.
• Call a qualified technician to inspect all equipment.
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Recognize the symptoms of CO poisoning: severe headache, dizziness, mental confusion, nausea, or faintness. Many of these symptoms are similar to the flu, food poisoning or other illnesses.
For more information, visit the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.
** Information/facts from www.nfpa.org. **
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