Carbon monoxide poisoning - Silent danger when trying to keep warm

by Marian Brown, editor

As many across North America prepare for the holiday season, many are also facing chilling temperatures with no adequate heat source. Deaths by carbon monoxide(CO) poisoning are truly tragic as they can be avoided.  Prevention, like with health care, is key to avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep the following tips in mind during this winter season.

• DO install a carbon monoxide detector near all sleeping areas in your home. If the alarm sounds, leave your home immediately and call 9-1-1.
• DO call 9-1-1 if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous.
• DO have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances checked by a qualified technician every year.
• DO stay with friends or at a community shelter if it is too cold in your house.
• DO NOT use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage.
• DO NOT use a gas range or oven to heat a home.
• DO NOT run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
• DO NOT run a generator (any gasoline-powered engine) inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be flu-like and include shortness of breath, mild nausea, and mild headaches.

Moderate levels of CO exposure can cause death if untreated. Symptoms of a moderate level of exposure include prolonged headaches, dizziness, nausea and light-headedness.

In addition to being safe when heating or cooking during these cold months, it is also important to check on friends and families, especially the elderly, during severe cold snaps. Be sure they have adequate heating sources and are using them properly.