What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide leak is a deadly gas generated in air-tight homes without your acknowledgment. It is difficult to detect carbon monoxide leaks as it is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Appliances such as space heaters, gas stoves, furnaces, heaters, and refrigerators can all emit CO if poorly ventilated. A gas leak can also be a major cause of carbon monoxide emissions. Even though carbon monoxide detectors are standard in most homes nowadays, it is still important to recognize any signs and symptoms of CO leaks in case your detector has problems. The following will provide you with a guide to what you need to know.
CO Gas Leak
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas, often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ because it is colorless and odorless. If it goes undetected, it can cause serious illness or death.
Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide Leak
- Poorly maintained fuel-burning appliances
- Damaged or blocked venting
- A blocked chimney
- A car running in an attached garage
Carbon Monoxide Leak Precaution
- Annual Inspection
Have your natural gas furnace, water heater, fireplace, and venting systems inspected annually by a certified technician.
- CO AlarmÂ
Install a carbon monoxide leak detector (Alarm) and regularly test your CO alarms.
- Inside Your Home
Never use outdoor fuel-burning equipment inside your home or garage as a temporary heat source during a power outage. This includes generators, patio heaters, and barbecues.
You are required to install a carbon monoxide alarm near all bedrooms if your home has:
- A fuel-burning appliance
- A fireplace
- An attached garage
For added safety, install a Carbon Monoxide leak detector (CO Alarm) on each level of your home. These alert you to the presence of CO, giving you and your family time to escape.
Who do I call to check my house for carbon monoxide?
If your CO alarm sounds, or anyone in your house has symptoms of CO poisoning (similar to the flu without the fever), GET OUT IMMEDIATELY & CALL 911!