As the temperatures drop, we all rely on various appliances to keep our homes warm and comfortable. A hot shower can quickly chase away the chill after a long day, and a warm bowl of soup is perfect after working outside. Turning up the thermostat adds an extra level of coziness to your home during the cold weather months. However, while these appliances keep us warm, they can also present hidden dangers if not properly maintained or used.
If any of your household appliances run on natural gas, propane, or oil, they produce a gas known as carbon monoxide (CO), which can be harmful or even fatal in high concentrations.
What Is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that results from the combustion of fossil fuels. Because it cannot be detected by sight, smell, or taste, it’s especially dangerous. In low levels, CO can cause serious health issues like nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. At higher levels, exposure can be deadly.
The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide
Each year, over 10,000 people visit emergency rooms due to CO exposure. The symptoms of low-level exposure often mimic the flu and include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Fatigue
These symptoms come on quickly and can be difficult to distinguish from other illnesses, making it important to be vigilant during the colder months.
Appliances that use combustion—such as water heaters, ovens, and space heaters that run on natural gas, propane, or oil—are common sources of carbon monoxide in the home. A malfunction or leak in any of these devices can lead to dangerous levels of CO in your indoor air.
High-Level Exposure Can Be Deadly
Each year, over 400 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning. In high levels, CO exposure can cause:
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Rapid heart rate
- Sensitivity to light and sound
These severe symptoms highlight the importance of being cautious with combustion appliances and understanding the risks associated with them.
Carbon Monoxide Risks from Common Activities
Some everyday activities can unintentionally expose you to dangerous levels of CO. For example, leaving your car running in an enclosed garage—even for a short period—can create enough carbon monoxide to be lethal in less than 12 minutes. Additionally, using outdoor appliances like barbecues, camping stoves, or generators inside can lead to CO buildup.
How to Protect Your Family
The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning is by installing CO detectors in your home. These detectors work much like smoke alarms and can be found at any home improvement store. Place them on or near the ceiling, as CO rises with warm air. Having these detectors in your home is the most effective way to monitor CO levels and ensure you are alerted to dangerous concentrations before they pose a risk to your health.
Final Thoughts
As you spend more time indoors this winter, ensure that your home is safe from carbon monoxide exposure. Regular maintenance on appliances that use combustion, along with the installation of carbon monoxide detectors, can make all the difference in protecting your family. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the warmth of the season without worry.