September 2006

CO Detectors Help Save Lives

Carbon monoxide is the number one cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America. The gas appliances in your home (dryer, range, water heater and furnace) produce carbon monoxide.

 

You can rest easy as long as each gas appliance is installed properly, well maintained and vented to the outside. As a backup, install a CO detector to help protect you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning.

 

Inexpensive yet priceless, a CO detector could save your family's lives in case of a carbon monoxide leak. CO detectors can be purchased starting around $20 at most home improvement stores.

 

Rule of thumb—install at least one working CO detector for each level of your home. Position detectors near bedrooms and family rooms, while avoiding close-by air vents and fans.

 

After installing the detectors, call the administrative number for your local fire department. Find out who the appropriate contact is for carbon monoxide emergencies. Post this number with your other emergency numbers.

 

If you already have CO detectors in your home, routinely test each device. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends checking your CO detector's battery every time you check your smoke detector's batteries.

 

Reduce carbon monoxide exposure

• Install a CO detector on every level of your home and routinely test each device.

  Have a licensed heating professional inspect your fuel-burning appliances prior to every heating season. Check for proper operation and venting to the outside of your home.
  Have the professional clean and tune-up your heating system, including the furnace, flues and chimneys. Repair any leaks promptly.
• Install CO detectors outside every sleeping area and family room in your home. (At least one detector for every level of your home.)
• Test CO detectors once a month and replace batteries if necessary.
• Use gas or other types of grills outdoors only.
• Never heat your home with a gas oven.
• Avoid running gas-powered equipment, including gas generators, in an enclosed space.
• Only purchase appliances tested and labeled by an independent testing laboratory.
• Never idle a vehicle in a garage, not even if the garage door is open.
• Open flues when using the fireplace.
• Use the exhaust fan over gas stoves. Install one if needed and make sure it's vented to the outside.

 

Act quickly if you suspect CO poisoning. Leave your home immediately and seek medical attention. Symptoms include drowsiness, headaches, dizziness, nausea and loss of coordination.

 

To learn more, visit www.redcross.org.

 

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