There’s a good reason why carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer.” Colorless, odorless and tasteless, this poisonous gas causes fatigue, headaches and dizziness at low concentrations and death at very high concentrations. Due to the lethality of this toxic gas, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your family from potentially fatal CO poisoning.
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of partially burnt fuels, including charcoal, oil, wood, coal, kerosene, natural gas and propane. A wide variety of household equipment powered by these fuels can generate toxic CO gas, including gas and wood stoves, gas water heaters and gas-powered dryers. Open flames, space heaters and exhaust from automobiles, lawn and gardening equipment and furnaces are also sources of CO.
Without the use of a CO detector, it’s virtually impossible to know when and if CO levels rise to dangerous levels. Available in both battery-powered and AC-powered forms, CO detectors monitor carbon monoxide levels within the home, sounding an audible alert whenever dangerous levels of CO accumulate. Some CO detectors are connected to a monitoring service that can dispatch emergency services if needed. Dual smoke/CO detectors combine fire detection with CO detection, eliminating the need for two separate devices while providing the best possible protection from life-threatening fire and CO hazards.
Carbon monoxide detectors are an important part of any home. However, it’s also important to prevent CO buildup from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips that can help you avoid CO poisoning:
- Never burn charcoal inside of your home, garage or any enclosed space.
- Never use clothes dryers, ovens or ranges to heat your home.
- Make sure fuel-burning appliances operate according to the manufacturer’s specifications and that they are properly serviced by a qualified technician as needed.
- Do not service fuel-burning appliances on your own without the proper skill, knowledge and tools.
- Avoid idling vehicles in your garage.
The professionals at James Lane can help you choose the right CO detector for your home. Our qualified technicians have helped Wichita Falls, Burkburnett and Olney residents with their home comfort needs since 1957.
