Tip Tuesday: Carbon Monoxide Safety

Glad to see you all back here after the long weekend, we hope you all had a great time!

As we head into cooler months (although this week is still supposed to be HOT!!!), we need to make sure to remember our safety when it come to staying safe and warm indoors :)

Hundreds of people die accidently every year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by appliances that are not used properly or that are malfunctioning. Learn how to protect yourself and your family.

If the power goes out:
ONLY use a generator outdoors and far from open windows and vents.
NEVER use a fenerator indoors, in garages or carports.
NEVER cook or heat inside on a charcoal or gas grill.

What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that cannot be seen or smelled and can kill a person in minutes. Carbon monoxide is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. Carbon monoxide can build up so quickly that victims are overcome before they can get help.

Once inhaled, carbon monoxide can cause permanent brain damage. It can cause chest pains or heart attacks in people with heart disease.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:
-Headache
-Weakness
-Dizziness
-Confusion
-Fatigue
-Nausea

Although this sounds scary, there are easy ways to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Never burn charcoal inside homes, tents, campers, vans, trucks, garages or mobile homes.

-Do not burn charcoal in the fireplace in your home.

-Never use gas-powered equipment indoors.

-Never use a gas over to heat your home, even for a short time.

-Never idle a car in a garage, even when the garage door is open.

-Never sleep in a room while using an unvented gas or kerosene heater.

-Make sure that chimneys and flues are in good condition and are not blocked.

- Carbon monoxide warning devices may provide additional protection, but should not replace the other prevention steps.

If you suspect someone has been poisoned by carbon monoxide:

-Move person to a place with fresh air immediately.

-Take the person to an emergency roon and tell them you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.

Stay safe and Happy Tuesday!