Five Ways to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a very real threat. It is especially dangerous because most people do not realize that it’s occurring until it’s too late. Fortunately, it is well understood where carbon monoxide comes from and how to prevent it from building up to dangerous levels. Remember these tips to prevent yourself and your family from being exposed to this hazardous gas.
Closely Monitor Fuel-burning Appliances
Malfunctioning appliances that burn fuel of any kind are the leading causes of residential carbon monoxide exposure. The most common sources of the gas in Miami homes are water heaters and fireplaces. When you are having these appliances installed, choose a well-known brand and have it installed by a contractor with a good reputation. All of these devices should be serviced by professionals on a regular basis to prevent a carbon monoxide emergency. In addition, never use barbecue grills, generators, or other fuel-burning devices indoors or any place without plenty of open space for the fumes to dissipate into.
Use Caution Around Automobile Exhaust
The exhaust from vehicles is another frequent cause of carbon monoxide exposure. While most of the exhaust dissipates before it has a chance to do any harm, a few situations could lead to a gradual buildup of the gas. A car that is left idling in a garage will soon fill the garage with dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. The inside of the car can also fill up with the gas if there is a blockage in the tailpipe.
Beware of Methylene Chloride
Also known as dichloromethane, this chemical is metabolized into carbon monoxide inside the human body, leading to the same dangerous symptoms. It is used in a wide variety of industrial and scientific processes, but the source that you are most likely to encounter at home is paint stripping chemicals. When purchasing paint strippers, read the label carefully and use extreme caution if it contains methylene chloride. Ensure proper ventilation and use respiratory protection.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
In the event of a carbon monoxide leak in your home, the most important thing is getting everyone outside as quickly as possible. Since carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, a detector is crucial. There are numerous stand-alone carbon monoxide detectors available, but you can also have your local ADT Miami security technician build one into your alarm system. This will give you immediate notice when the gas is detected so that you can get your family out of the house before any harm is done. Your Miami ADT home security company will also contact the proper authorities in the event of a leak.
Protect Vulnerable Individuals
You probably encounter small amounts of carbon monoxide several times a day, but it is generally not harmful in such concentrations. However, it can be an issue for particularly vulnerable people. Infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and anyone with a pre-existing cardiovascular, respiratory, or cerebral condition should be kept away from carbon monoxide as much as possible. They are more susceptible to the immediate effects, and they also run a higher risk of developing complications later on.
Carbon monoxide poses a serious risk when it builds up. However, preventing this situation is an easy and straightforward process. Follow these tips, and your family will be safe from the dangerous presence of carbon monoxide gas.
