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With cold weather, be CO smart |
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January 10, 2017 |
In wake of the persistent winter weather,
Panhandle Health District (PHD) is reminding
North Idaho residents to take precautions to
prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
CO is a poisonous gas produced by burning fuels
such as gasoline, natural gas, propane,
kerosene, charcoal and wood. CO from these
sources can build up in enclosed or partially
enclosed spaces, such as your home or garage.
Cases of CO poisoning increase in the winter;
often related to generator use. According to the
Centers for Disease Control (CDC), CO poisoning
kills more than 400 Americans and is responsible
for over 50,000 emergency department visits each
year. In Idaho, several individuals have
recently presented to local hospitals with
symptoms of CO poisoning.
No deaths have been reported in Idaho so far
this winter.
“Carbon monoxide is invisible, tasteless, and
odorless, which is why taking precautions and
being aware is critical,” said Dave Hylsky, PHD
Staff Epidemiologist. “I urge everyone to
install carbon monoxide detectors in their
homes, boats, cabins, campers, and anywhere
carbon monoxide might be present to protect you
and your family from accidental poisoning.”
Symptoms of carbon monoxide include headache,
nausea, weakness, abdominal discomfort,
dizziness and confusion. Children, pregnant
women and individuals with heart conditions are
most vulnerable to poisoning. Anyone with these
symptoms and suspect CO poisoning should go
outside the building immediately and seek
medical attention.
5 Tips to help prevent CO poisoning:
* Never leave a car running in a garage, even with the garage door open.
Do not leave the rear window of a vehicle open
while driving. CO from the exhaust can be pulled
inside the car, van, or camper;
* Never use a gas stove or oven to heat the home. Never burn charcoal
inside a house, garage, vehicle, or tent. Do not
use charcoal in a fireplace;
* Avoid using unvented gas, propane or kerosene heaters in enclosed
spaces, especially sleeping areas.
* Never use a portable generator indoors or in enclosed or partially
enclosed areas. Always place generators outdoors
on a dry surface, at least 20 feet away from
doors, windows, vents and air conditioning
equipment that could allow CO to enter.
* Install battery operated CO alarms inside your home according to
manufacturer’s installation instructions.
For more information about carbon monoxide
poisoning or emergencies, review the Idaho
Department of Health and Welfare
CO fact sheet or call the Idaho Poison
Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. |
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