What are the Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning are illness and possibly death. If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, immediately seek fresh air. Carbon monoxide is an invisible gas. It has no color, no taste, no smell. It can be fatal in a number of hours and leave you unconscious even faster. Therefore prevention is very important. It can collect in your home due to many sources, including oil furnaces, gas stoves and other appliances.
There are laws in Pennsylvania that dictate using detectors in certain types of buildings and dwellings. But it is good practice to use them no matter what the law says about your particular house, condo or apartment.
This week it was announced that tragically, carbon monoxide poisoning was a possible cause of death for the son of a former New York Yankees player while on vacation. Last December a carbon monoxide leak was suspected in the death of an actress right here in Pennsylvania. In January three people were found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in a county in Pennsylvania. Each of these deaths are tragic and serve as a somber warning for how seriously the risk should be taken.
How to Recognize the Symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Headache
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Shortness of Breath
- Weakness
If you experience these symptoms, get to fresh air immediately. Go outside. Seek medical attention.
If you suspect carbon monoxide, alert authorities including fire department, gas company, or police. A carbon monoxide situation is an emergency.
Protecting Yourself and Your Family
There are several things you can do to protect yourself from carbon monoxide. Have detectors in multiple locations around your home. Bedrooms and basements are great locations. Children can be particularly at risk. Get a combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector for each child’s room to keep kids safe. And don’t forget to regularly check them and replace the batteries!
Remember that you can succumb to carbon monoxide while asleep. Do not assume you will wake up and feel symptoms. A loud alarm is the best way alert you to a problem.
Have your furnace serviced to make sure it is in good working order with no leaks.
Never put stoves or other devices that might give off the gas in a confined space with a person… such as a vehicle, closed porch, etc.
Talk to your family about what to do if they feel any of the symptoms listed above. And have an emergency plan that your children know and can practice like leaving the house safely and finding a meeting point outside.
When you go on vacation and stay in a rental or a hotel, you can bring a small plug-in version of the detector to keep yourself safe.
If you have questions for a personal injury attorney, please call one of our experienced lawyers at Graham & Mauer. You can hear more from satisfied former clients HERE. You can also follow G&M on social media for more safety tips.
