New Canaan Fire Fighters have already responded to 3 incidents in that past 2 weeks of elevated levels of CO in resident’s homes. In all cases the occupants were unaware that they were being exposed until alerted by their CO detectors - those detectors may have saved their lives!
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced by burning fuel. Any combustion appliance (i.e., gas furnaces, wood stoves, oil burners, gas ranges or dryers, household generators, and autos) can produce CO. Early symptoms of CO poisoning can be similar to those of common illnesses, including headaches, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. Since CO is odorless and colorless and initial symptoms could be mistaken for the flu, an exposed person may not be aware they are being poisoned until it is too late.
Some steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from CO poisoning:
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- Make sure appliances are installed and vented according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes (permits may be required).
- Have heating and ventilation systems (including chimneys) serviced and/or inspected annually.
- If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected get to fresh air immediately and call 911. Fire Fighters can respond and monitor for the presence of CO.
- If your basement was recently finished, was additional make-up air considered for the heating system?
- Never use a gas range or oven for heating your home
- Never leave a car running in an attached garage – even for 15 seconds!
- Never burn charcoal indoors – even in a vented fireplace.
- Never operate unvented fuel-burning appliances indoors unless approved for such use
Please install CO detectors in your home or apartment (one for each level) in accordance with the supplied instructions. The easiest units are the type that plug directly into existing electrical outlets. CO detectors are available, at no cost, at Fire Headquarters for residents who are in need, courtesy of the New Canaan Fire Fighters, The Rotary Club of New Canaan and, Kidde Corp.
For more information on carbon monoxide and other fire safety issues please contact the New Canaan Fire Marshal’s Office at 594-3030.
