Carbon monoxide is a potentially deadly gas that can’t be detected without a mechanical alarm. It is colorless, odorless, and very poisonous. It causes an average of 150 deaths per year.

Most injuries and deaths from carbon monoxide are caused by fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, ranges, water heaters, and room heaters, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
 
Burning charcoal or running generators can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
 
The best way to keep yourself and your family safe from carbon monoxide poisoning is to install an alarm. These alarms monitor the amount of carbon monoxide in the air, and emit a warning when levels are too high. Make sure to keep areas that are at risk of carbon monoxide well-ventilated, such as when you are camping and using lanterns and stoves. A fresh source of oxygen is your best defense against the deadly poison.
 
Carbon monoxide poisoning often causes little or no symptoms, especially in people who are already asleep. It can cause drowsiness, stomachache, headache, and dizziness. Some people may experience nausea and vomiting.
 
Share this entry:
 These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
  • Digg
  • Technorati
  • del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Fark
  • Furl
  • Twitter