Kidde Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is considered toxic, with minimal exposure, and deadly when exposed to high levels. Even low levels of carbon monoxide can cause neurological problems and poisoning may occur in as little as a few minutes. Carbon monoxide is generally produced when fuel is burned in the furnaces of power or hot water heaters. Combustion apparatus in general does not produce harmful amounts of carbon monoxide, but they will if they are misused, improperly vented or poorly maintained.

There are many symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning in households that have combustion appliances should be aware. Knowing the symptoms will take immediate action, which may also help prevent injury or death.

Carbon monoxide brandishing symptoms:

• Speech disorder similar to having too much alcohol

• Slightly to moderately incoherent, has no meaning

• Disoriented, as having a very high fever

• Blue lips like contact with cold water

• Nasal discharge that resembles the symptoms of colds or flu

• Tearing similar to allergies or hay fever

• Nausea

• Headache, usually a nuisance at first then turning more sever

• Dizziness

Carbon monoxide poisoning is often confused with other illnesses such as colds or flu. The presence of low concentrations of carbon monoxide accumulates in the body over time and eventually cause serious health problems if no action is taken. The symptoms must be checked by a doctor, especially in cases where more than one person at home is to show them. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be detected by a simple blood test. High levels can cause death within a short period of time. The fresh air will help purge the body of carbon monoxide, but it may take days before it is completely outside the system.

preventive safety measures:

stoves with that combustion appliances such as stoves, gas ovens, gas or oil, fireplaces, and wood must be fitted with a carbon monoxide detector and alarm. All devices will eventually deteriorate. A carbon monoxide detector is the perfect back up a system when that happens. Detectors must be located on every floor of the house or at least the lower level for optimum safety.

Some other security measures you can take to make your home safer from carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Combustion appliances must be checked by a technician at the beginning of each heating season.

• Chimneys and flues should be checked for obstructions and cleaned.

• Equipment must be installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements.

• Never let your car sit in the garage when running, even if the garage door is open.

• Do not use a gas oven to heat your home, even if just for a short period of time.

Installing a carbon monoxide detector is easy enough for the handyman. You can install a smoke detector and in your fire alarm system or you can buy a separate battery detector powered Kidde Carbon Monoxide and install it in the lower level of your home. The more you know about carbon monoxide, the better you'll be able to detect it in your house before becoming a victim.