Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: How to Avoid This Silent Killer

Carbon Monoxide is deadly and silent. Knowing the symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning can save your life or the life of someone you know. This article explains how Carbon Monoxide poisoning can happen, the symptoms, treatment and prevention.

Symptoms of lower level Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be difficult to detect as they can mimic other health issues such as food poisoning or even the flu. Those symptoms can include mild headaches, mild nausea and also shortness of breath.

Exposure to higher levels of Carbon Monoxide can cause increased symptoms which persist for a greater length of time. Those symptoms often include lightheadedness or dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and headaches.

A person exposed to higher or more concentrated levels of Carbon Monoxide can be killed within several minutes.

If you suspect that you or someone else has Carbon Monoxide poisoning call for emergency medical help immediately. After you call 911 get to a source of fresh air immediately. Get outdoors if at all possible. If you cannot move a person open the windows and doors first then ensure that all appliances are shut off. Do not expose yourself to the gas as a person can succumb quickly. Anyone who is suspected of suffering from Carbon Monoxide poisoning should go to the hospital as soon as possible.

How does Carbon Monoxide poisoning occur? There are several ways in which levels of Carbon Monoxide can build up to where they are a danger to us such as running a car , snow blower or lawn mower in an enclosed space such as a garage or repair shop. Using a grill whether it is charcoal or gas indoors is dangerous as well. Improperly vented fireplaces can also be a source of Carbon Monoxide buildup that leads to Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

Treatment for Carbon Monoxide poisoning must be sought at a hospital and often includes having the victim breathe in pure oxygen via an oxygen mask or being placed in a hyperbaric chamber.

The best way to prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning is to install Carbon Monoxide detectors in your home. It is recommended to have a Carbon Monoxide detector on each level of your home including your basement. Always have adequate ventilation when in an enclosed space when you have appliances or motors running. Do not let your vehicle idle in the garage even if the garage door is opened. Have your fireplace and chimney inspected yearly before use. Only heat your home and cook in your home with approved and properly installed and ventilated appliances. Space heaters and BBQ grills can pose severe danger. When traveling bring a portable Carbon Monoxide detector for use in recreational vehicles as well as hotels.

Following these tips on prevention will ensure you do not become a victim of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.