Homeowners can take action against carbon monoxide poisoning by taking the following Carbon Monoxide Safety Steps…
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas produced by the combustion of fuels such as natural gas, oil and propane in devices including furnaces, water heaters and stoves. These appliances are designed to vent the CO to the outside, but incomplete combustion of fuel, improper installation, or blockages, leaks or cracks in the venting systems can cause CO to reach harmful levels inside the home.
- Never use a gas stove or oven to heat the home, even temporarily.
- Have all fuel-burning appliances professionally inspected annually, preferably before the start of the cold weather season when heaters and furnaces are first used (including gas stoves and ovens, furnaces and heaters, water heaters and gas clothes dryers)
- All such devices should be properly installed and vented to the outside.
- Have flues and chimneys for gas fireplaces inspected regularly for cracks, leaks, and blockages that may allow a buildup of CO to occur.
- Don’t start a vehicle in a closed garage or idle the engine in the garage even if the overhead door is open.
- Gasoline-powered generators and charcoal grills must never be used indoors.
- Install a CO detector (either battery operated, hard-wired or plug-in) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper location. Working CO detectors in residences are now required by law in most states.
- Learn what to do if the CO alarm activates. If anyone in the home experiences symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, or confusion, everyone should leave immediately and seek medical attention. If no symptoms are felt, open doors and windows immediately and shut off all fuel-burning devices that may be potential sources of CO.
Following these Carbon Monoxide Safety Steps will ensure your home is safe not only during the heating season, but year round.
If you need to schedule your winter heating maintenance still, contact the professionals at Total Mechanical Systems today! We’re here to keep you, your family, and your home SAFE, WARM, and COMFORTABLE now and always!
Source: https://denniscastellano.pillartopost.com/news/carbon-monoxide-what-you-need-to-know/
