Carbon monoxide, an invisible and scentless gas, poses a grave danger, potentially leading to sudden illness or even death when inhaled in significant quantities. Staying informed and cautious is key to safety.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year more than 100,000 Americans end up in emergency rooms due to unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. Of these, over 14,000 require hospitalization, and tragically, more than 400 people lose their lives.
This hazardous gas becomes particularly perilous during colder months, as it is often emitted by household appliances like furnaces and portable generators used to keep homes warm. These appliances, while essential, can inadvertently become sources of danger if not properly maintained or ventilated.
Dr. Jason Milk, an emergency medicine expert from the Cleveland Clinic, highlights the difficulty in recognizing carbon monoxide poisoning due to its symptoms. “A lot of the symptoms of the early start to carbon monoxide exposure can mimic some of the cold- and flu-like symptoms,” he pointed out, noting the challenge this similarity presents in early detection.
Common indicators of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for other common ailments, emphasizing the importance of awareness and preventative measures.
The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.
“The emergency departments have the ability of how to measure your carbon monoxide levels, and the antidote for carbon monoxide exposure is eliminating the source, meaning getting away from the risk, and then oxygen is the therapy,” Milk explained.
Tips to reduce your risk of exposure
Carbon monoxide detectors
One of the most common ways to reduce your risk of exposure is by using a carbon monoxide detector that will alert when there’s a danger.
The CDC says it’s important to find a battery-powered or battery backup detector in your home, and they should be installed near every sleeping area.
Detectors with digital readouts are helpful because they can tell you the concentration of the odorless gas in your home, in addition to sounding an alarm if the levels get too high.
And be sure to replace your detector according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or every five years.
Only use a generator outside
The CDC also says to never use a generator inside your home or garage, even if doors and windows are open. If a generator is being used outside, it’s crucial to keep them more than 20 feet away from any windows, doors, and vents.
Don’t run your vehicle in an enclosed space
Never run your vehicle inside a garage that’s attached to a house, even with the garage door open. If you have a detached garage, it’s crucial that you open the door to let in fresh air when running your vehicle.
Home-heating safety
Don’t use a gas oven to heat your home, and never burn charcoal or use a portable gas camp stove indoors. The CDC also urges people to have their chimney cleaned or checked every year before cold temperatures set in.
CNN Newsource contributed to this report.
