Carbon Monoxide - The Silent Killer

During the fall and winter seasons, one is sure to observe a variety of idyllic beauty provided by Mother Nature. As temperatures plummet and snow begins to fall, it is time for the yearly ritual of finding ways to keep your home warm and comfortable. There are many methods to heat a home, such as burning natural gas, oil, coal, wood pellets, wood, kerosene, or propane, but all of these methods carry the same risk, especially during a power outage which,  unfortunately, has become very common in our area.  Carbon monoxide (CO) is a by-product of burning heating fuels, and in large amounts it is extremely dangerous. It is called “The Silent Killer” for good reason - the gas itself -colorless, odorless and tasteless - provides no warning of its presence (unless detectors are installed).  And the early symptoms - headache, dizziness and nausea - are often mistaken, until too late, for something else.  But the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also notes that because the gas is so silent, so subtle in its attack "people who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms."

Considering that someone exposed to CO may be too incapacitated to react to an audible alarm commonly found in homes, integration of CO detectors to a central monitoring system is the only true safe solution.  If CO is detected,  an alarm will be sent to central monitoring and they will immediately notify the Fire Dept. and EMT.  It will also alert your home security company of any issues if you are away from your residence.

Carbon monoxide detectors are the most valuable tool in protecting yourself and your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning. But there are several other steps that you can take to further reduce the risks, including:

•  Never use equipment designed for outdoor use inside your home. This includes BBQs, camp stoves, and hibachis.

• Ÿ If your power goes out during the cold winter months, exercise caution when running a gas powered generator. It MUST be used outside, and it is best to position it in a dry location away from doors and windows to prevent fumes from entering the house.

• Ÿ Know the early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which include the sudden and unexplained onset of dizziness, nausea, confusion, headaches, and tiredness. If you experience these symptoms, leave your house and get out into fresh air immediately.

• Ÿ Avoid using your gas range or stovetop as a heat source.

Many people are aware of the numerous benefits of having a monitored home security system, but they may not realize that carbon monoxide detection is available through their currently installed system. Cold weather is right around the corner- don’t delay, call today to learn more about adding this feature to your existing service!