Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a dangerous gas that can be created in large and deadly quantities during combustion processes used by appliances like engines, stoves, and heating systems. This substance is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, so humans cannot detect it with only their senses. Because of its elusively fatal qualities, carbon monoxide has become one of the leading causes of accidental death in the United States.
Protecting Yourself from CO Poisoning
There are certain safety measures endorsed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that should help you protect yourself and your family against unexpected carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Regularly check and maintain your combustion appliances: gas stoves, heaters, boilers, lanterns, furnaces, etc.
- Make sure that all of your fuel-burning appliances vent their exhaust fumes outside of the house
- Makes sure that you follow the instructions when installing, using, or caring for your fuel-burning appliances
- Avoid allowing a vehicle to idle in a closed garage
- Do not use gas ovens to heat the home
- Make sure all rooms that use gas heaters are well ventilated
- If you start to experience any of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, seek fresh air immediately
Aside from taking these steps toward avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning, you should also consider installing a CO alarm in your home. This extra safety measure should act as a backup, in case your home manages to accrue carbon monoxide even after you have followed the safety tips listed above.
Contact Us
If you have lost someone you love to carbon monoxide poisoning, then someone else may be liable for this tragic death. The propane explosion lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® can help you determine responsibility and fight for justice. Contact us today at 800-242-2874.