During the winter months when many Americans are using heating devices as well as our ovens the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning rises according to the American College of Emergency Physicians. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas and if its symptoms arent noticed, it can be deadly. Every year, carbon monoxide poisoning results in over 20,000 visits to emergency rooms, 4,000 hospitalizations and last year, it caused 400 deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The best tactic to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning is to know its symptoms:
headache
dizziness
weakness
nausea
vomiting
chest pain
confusion
Since these symptoms can seem like other common illnesses, especially flu, it may be difficult to pinpoint carbon monoxide poisoning. Experts say that we should suspect the possible presence of carbon monoxide poisoning if more than one person living or working together develops these symptoms simultaneously over a brief period of time.
The good news is that carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. Heres what you can do:
Be sure your gas appliances are installed and maintained by a qualified professional.
Install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home. Its best to put them near bedrooms.
Never leave your car engine running in an enclosed garage.
Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters in your home or shop. Even though they dont have a flame, they can still release carbon monoxide.
Never use a charcoal grill in your home.
Be sure all your gas appliances are properly vented to prevent carbon monoxide buildup indoors this includes your washer and dryer.
If you have a fireplace, make sure the flue is open when you have a fire. Have your chimney check and cleaned every year preferably before the winter months begin.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning -- do not wait. Call 911.
Robin Westen is ThirdAges medical reporter. Check for her daily updates. She is the author of Ten Days to Detox: How to Look and Feel a Decade Younger.
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