by Chuck Harding

Created on: February 24, 2009

Carbon Monoxide . . . odorless, colorless, tasteless and . . . deadly! Sounds like the perfect poison used in a #1 best seller doesn't it? But it's not, it's real life. The plot plays out in thousands of homes across the nation every year. CO, in lethal concentration, is a clandestine killer. It comes calling, like a thief in the night, without you ever knowing you and your family are in danger. Is there protection against this could be lethal intruder . . . yes there is; inexpensive and simple to install devices that could mean the difference between life and death.

Records estimate there were 15,200 reported carbon monoxide poisonings last year in the United States, of which over 500 of them were fatal. Those who are in the greatest danger are unborn babies, younger children (6 or under), senior citizens and those with respiratory or heart problems. Lower levels of CO can cause shortness of breath, mild nausea, and mild headaches. Moderate levels can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and light-headedness. High levels of CO can be fatal and cause death within minutes. Many people mistake CO poisoning with symptoms of the flu, not suspecting that carbon monoxide may be present in their home. That's where the monitors come in and do their part, they save lifes.

Many states have become aware of the potential hazard and have revamped their building codes, requiring CO alarms to be installed in all new residential and commercial construction. Like smoke alarms they are early warning devices to alert you of a danger in your home or work place. The detectors may be battery operated or hard wired which can be linked together to operate as a complete system protecting the entire house or building. The detectors are pre-calculated at the factory to absorb CO, if present, over a set period of time. When a specific PPM (part per million) of CO is sensed the alarm goes off and alerts you of the danger.

CO is a result of the incomplete burning of a fossil fuel such as natural gas, propane, coal, wood, charcoal, gasoline, diesel or oil. Proper venting of any fossil fuel appliance, heater, fireplace, stove, and even your fireplace is critical to avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning. Never leave your car or truck running in the garage, especially if the garage is attached to the house. Never use a gas cook stove to heat your home should your furnace be on the blink. I strongly suggest your visit an excellent website which is sponsored by FEMA, http://www.fema.gov/txt/media/2007/winter_ready.txt. It has a very helpful guide within it concerning how to protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning.

The detectors can be found in most good home improvement stores or on-line. Prices will vary depending upon the brand and type you choose. The number of detectors you will need will depend upon the size and layout of your home or business. Discuss the particulars with a qualified professional dealer concerning your situation to be assured you and your loved ones will be fully protected.

500 people became a statistic last year. Please don't allow it to happen to your family. Be safe, use common sense, make sure your appliances are vented properly and checked regularly and . . . install the detectors as your safety net.

A smart person learns from his mistakes

A wise person learns from others

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