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The Silent Killer

It's called the “silent killer” because it strikes without warning, without symptoms, and the results can be devastating, even fatal. What is this silent killer? It’s carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless and one of the leading causes of accidental poisoning deaths. Where is it? It’s in most homes – and is the result of incomplete burning of most household carbon–containing fuels, including coal, natural gas, oil, coal, wood, and charcoal. Poor air circulation or proper ventilation surrounding any source that burns these fuels (e.g., stoves, fireplaces, water heaters, and furnaces) produces this deadly gas.

How does carbon monoxide poisoning affect you? First off, it hinders the delivery of oxygen in the blood throughout the body. You may feel dizzy or sleepy at first. You may get a headache or have problems with breathing. At higher concentrations, your judgment may become cloudy and eventually convulsions, paralysis, coma and even death can result.

What can you do to protect your loved ones from the potentially devastating effects of carbon monoxide poisoning?

• Install carbon monoxide detectors
• Annually check all combustion (fuel–burning) appliances
• Open the chimney flue when burning wood in a fireplace
• Never use your stove to heat your house
• Never burn charcoal inside your home
• Use an exhaust fan near your stove for proper ventilation
• Check all exhaust pipes to make sure they are connected and working properly
• Never let your car idle in an attached garage Never use a space heater without proper ventilation

You can protect you and your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning by following these few simple suggestions. Be proactive – don’t let the “silent killer” creep up on you.