Carbon Monoxide Dangers

Nothing is better than cuddling up by the fireplace during cold winter nights. Memories can be made around a fireplace: roasting chestnuts over the open flame, hanging stocking for Christmas, or simply taking a nap by the fire. But, fireplaces can release a toxic gas called Carbon Monoxide.  Carbon Monoxide, CO2, is a lethal gas that is always odorless and colorless. The only way it can be detected is with a Carbon Monoxide Detector.  Carbon Monoxide is produced from the fossil fuels that don’t burn completely. In any home, CO2 can come from open flames, blocked chimneys, space heaters, and even water heaters. Detectors should especially be placed in rooms with fireplaces. Also, cars also produce Carbon Monoxide. If you work a lot in your garage or if your garage is attached to your home, you could be exposing yourself and your family to this poisnous gas. In addition to Carbon Monoxide being odorless, its symptoms are often confused with the flu. Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, light-headness, and nausea. High levels of CO2 can cause death within minutes. CO2 poisoning can be prevented with a detector.  Fire detectors are different from Carbon Monoxide detectors. Some sensors can detect both, but it is important to check so that you will not be vulnerable to either. Carbon Monoxide detectors should be checked at least monthly to make sure they still work properly.  Be sure to protect your family and memories around the fireplace from the toxic and odorless Carbon Monoxide with a CO2 detector. Your home should be a place where your family can always gather safely.