Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning is very common. However, not everyone is aware of it. Some who know about it lack the essential information to protect themselves and their family. However, before we discuss its dangers, it is important that we know what carbon monoxide is first. It is a type of gas that may have a natural purpose. However, too much carbon monoxide in the environment can spell trouble for human beings especially to children and pregnant women.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a common type of poisoning. In fact, hospitals can attest to the number of victims brought to them daily. However, this is not very easy to detect, as its symptoms are similar with other diseases. In addition to that, people cannot see, smell, taste or touch the carbon monoxide. Some of the most common types of its symptoms are dizziness, headache and nausea.

Symptoms are different from the actual damage it can do to you. Its effects on the body vary. Some will experience minor problems and they will be able to recover fast. Some will have a more serious damage that may not heal. It may affect significant organs in your body like the lungs, liver and the brain. This is why it is imperative that you know how to protect yourself from this type of poisoning.

There are several ways to prevent such poisoning. One of them is to install a carbon monoxide detector. This will identify the level of carbon monoxide in your home. If it reaches a critical level, the detector will alarm, signaling you to get out of the house. However, you have to make sure that the detector is working at all times. You can ensure this by replacing its battery regularly. Replace it as often as you would replace the battery in your wall clock.

Aside from the detector, you should also know what the sources of the carbon monoxide are so that you can monitor them. There are several of these are home. Common sources are the smoke from your cigarette. Devices that are fueled by kerosene, propane and gasoline are also sources of this type of gas. Some paint and spray also has this.

To prevent having problems, it is important that these items are inspected regularly. The devices used at home that will release such gas should be checked regularly. If there are any damages, then they have to be repaired immediately.

You also have to make sure that you have vents for appliances or systems that produce smoke just like cooking stove and fireplaces. If it does not have vents, then the smoke will be release in your home.

You should also be wary about warming your car. Do not do it in a garage next to your as the fumes can get in the house. If you do not have any choice, see to it that you close all the doors and windows of the house to prevent the gas from entering your property.

Finally, it is very important that you know what to do when you suspect a carbon monoxide poisoning. Once your detector alarms get out of the house right away and call authorities to deal with it. You need to get a lot of oxygen. You need to be treated right away as well.