Carbon Monoxide
Dangers
This is the most common poisoning that results from coming into contact with carbon monoxide. It can be inhaled, touched, and any other way of bodily contact. Listed below are different carbon monoxide sources.
Agina is a disease that occurs when a person consumes a short-term amount of carbon monoxide in their home resulting in damage to their heart.
These effects include Hypoxia which is a severe oxygen deficiency, brain damage (can be long-term or delayed), and even heart damage.
Sources
Household appliances
Most household appliances such as gas space heaters, leaking chimneys, furnaces, water heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces emit high levels of carbon monoxide into the air but mainly ones that burl fuel.
Level of carbon monoxide
The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning can depend on the different levels of concentrations in the home and how much an individual consumes. Some levels can cause fatigue while others can cause nausea and confusion. No matter what it is, NO LEVEL of carbon monoxide is safe for an individual.
Chimneys
The amount of carbon monoxide found in chimneys is quite heavy. It usually comes from the charcoal and debris that is left behind.
Generators
To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, it has been advised by many health departments to not use any type of generator inside your home. Generators should only be used outside due to the high amount of carbon monoxide that is emitted in them.
How to Limit & Avoid an Indoor Gas Danger
Household appliances
Reduce the amount of gas released into the atmosphere by turning off appliances promptly and avoiding extended use. The longer an appliance is left on, the greater the potential harm. If you experience any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
CO Detectors
Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in your home to monitor and maintain safe CO levels. Have a professional install the detectors and replace them every five years. Place a detector on every level of your home, near sleeping areas, and in hallways. Ensure you use detectors that are properly certified and have them inspected regularly to ensure they function correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (coming soon)
References & Helpful Articles
- https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/carbon-monoxides-impact-indoor-air-quality
- https://www.epa.gov/co-pollution/basic-information-about-carbon-monoxide-co-outdoor-air-pollution
- https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/what-about-carbon-monoxide-detectors
- https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-check-gases-your-house.htm
- https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/healthy_homes/healthyhomes/carbonmonoxide
- https://www.cdc.gov/carbon-monoxide/about/index.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/co-comp/default.html
- https://www.ncdhhs.gov/carbon-monoxide-poisoning
- https://epi.dph.ncdhhs.gov/oee/a_z/co.html
- https://nchh.org/information-and-evidence/learn-about-healthy-housing/health-hazards-prevention-and-solutions/carbon-monoxide/#:~:text=Health%20Impacts&text=Even%20at%20low%20levels%2C%20carbon,it%20difficult%20to%20think%20clearly
- https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/where-should-i-place-carbon-monoxide-detector
- https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/what-do-i-do-if-i-suspect-combustion-appliances-are-affecting-my-health