Carbon monoxide got a lot of press near the end of 2014 and start of 2015. It is mandatory in our area to have a CO detector in any home/multi-unit residence/apartment that has a fuel burning appliance or attached garage. Why is it so important?
Well, carbon monoxide is odourless, colourless and tasteless – meaning you can’t see, taste or smell it. It is often called the silent killer and its symptoms mimic that of the flu (except you don’t have a fever). Carbon monoxide inhibits your blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Prolonged exposure can cause severe headaches, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death. Its effects are felt more strongly in children, the elderly and pregnant women.
If you are suffering from CO poisoning, you will notice your symptoms decrease when you are away from the source.
CO is caused by the incomplete combustion of burning fuels. Fuel burning appliances, idling vehicles, plugged heat exchangers, back drafts, air pressure changes, or blocked chimneys can all be a culprit of CO.
Prevent CO poisoning by installing a CO detector on every floor of your home and make sure one is outside of all sleeping areas. Test them, so all family members know what sound it makes when it is going off. Have an annual service on all HVAC equipment – the technician should complete a CO test on the units to ensure they are operating safely. Check vents regularly for blockages. Don’t idle your vehicle in your garage.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, call 911 for an ambulance and the fire department. If you are able to safely evacuate the house/building, call your fuel supplier too. Once the fuel supplier and fire department have checked the house, if they have determined your HVAC equipment to be the cause, call a licensed contractor to repair or replace the equipment.