With the temperature dropping, people begin warming their homes and cars, and as a result, there is an increase in carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon Monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas caused by burning fuel that can result in nausea, headache, and fatigue in the early stages, and permanent neurological damage or death in severe cases.
Carbon monoxide is often called the “silent killer” as most victims do not realize the symptoms until too late, or poisoning happens while they are asleep. Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen to anyone and the CDC estimates about 400 Americans die from carbon monoxide poisoning every year.
To protect your family and pets this winter, follow these steps:
1. Never heat up your car in an enclosed space, like a garage.
Even if your garage is ventilated or the door is open, you are still at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home
As carbon monoxide has no smell and most people do not immediately notice the poisoning, a carbon monoxide detector near the bedrooms in your home can prevent tragedies from happening.
3. Keep your heating equipment in good shape
Every year, you should have your heating system, water heaters, and any gas or coal-burning appliances serviced to ensure that they are working properly and will not contribute to gas leaks.
4. Do not use a generator or flameless chemical heaters inside of your home, basement or garage, even if it is ventilated
5. Make sure all gas appliances are ventilated properly and never use a gas oven to heat your home
6. Know the symptoms
It is vital to know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you or a loved one begins experiencing the symptoms below, immediately get everyone in the building to go outdoors:
- Mental confusion
- Vomiting
- Loss of muscular coordination
- Loss of consciousness
- Death
Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. If you or a loved one experiences carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of someone else’s negligence, a Long Island Personal Injury attorney fromThe Odierno Law Firm, P.C. can help.
Lee J. Odierno is the managing partner of Odienero Law’s no-fault department. Find out more about Lee on his profile page, or visit any of his social media profiles below:
