Winter Storm Blair: How to Stay Warm and Safe From a Silent & Deadly Killer
Last year, our family experienced a really close call. Right after Christmas, our HVAC unit stopped blowing hot air. I immediately contacted my friends at Schwartz Heating & Cooling to schedule an appointment with a technician. He informed me that he discovered a hole inside the unit which was probably already leaking carbon monoxide into our house!
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Risks Rise in Winter
I had honestly never worried too much about carbon monoxide risks before, so you better believe it was a wake-up call. We could have ended up in the emergency room, or worse! Unfortunately, carbon monoxide poisoning is most common in these cold months with people trying to keep warm. Especially right now during Winter Storm Blair.
According to the CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
"Every year, at least 420 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning. More than 100,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency department each year due to accidental CO poisoning."
These dangers are preventable as long as you know what to look for and avoid. Carbon Monoxide gas has no color or odor, so it can be hard to detect until it's too late. Here are some ways to help keep you and your family safe for winter.
CDC Tips to Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Check or change the batteries in your CO detector every six months. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO detector, buy one soon.
Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
Keep vents and flues free of debris. Debris can block ventilation lines.
Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.
Never run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine less than 20 feet from an open window, door, or vent where exhaust can vent into an enclosed area.
Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or camper.
Never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open.
Recognizing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms
Breathing too much carbon monoxide can keep oxygen from circulating properly. The most common side effects of Carbon Monoxide poisoning are Headache, Weakness, Dizziness, Nausea or vomiting, Shortness of breath, Confusion, Blurred vision, Drowsiness, Loss of muscle control, and Loss of consciousness. If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing this, find fresh air immediately and contact a medical professional or head to the nearest convenient care or emergency room.
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Gallery Credit: Anuradha Varanasi
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