Carbon Monoxide Precautions

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a bigger problem than most people think. Read below...

(WTNH-ABC News) _ Carbon monoxide is responsible for poisoning, and in some cases killing, hundreds of Americans each year.

When the sun goes down, the risk goes up for carbon monoxide poisoning as homeowners try to stay warm.

"Every year we lose about 500 Americans to carbon monoxide fatalities and more than 15,000 are arriving in emergency rooms," said Dr. Howard Frumkin of the National Center for Environmental Health.

Experts say faulty gas furnaces cause more problems than anything else.
"Consumers really need to take the time to have that furnace inspected to make sure there are no leaks," said Julie Vallese of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Portable generators placed too close to a home are also dangerous. You can not see carbon monoxide gas and you can not smell it, but it causes serious symptoms.

"When you begin to get carbon monoxide exposure you have headaches, nausea, some vomiting and disorientation. As it progresses some people pass out and lose consciousness. They can even progress to death," said Dr. Frumkin.

A simple blood test can determine the level of exposure. The Centers for Disease Control recommends battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors. (www.transducertech.com) If the alarm goes off, get out of the house, breath fresh air and dial 911.