Understanding and Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Understanding and Preventing Carbon Monoxide PoisoningA chill is in the air, signaling that it's time to make preparations for winter. One preparation you should incorporate into your yearly routine is to check your carbon monoxide (CO) detector and make your home safe for the winter. http://www.south-riding-insurance.com/
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that is created by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as gas, wood, propane, and oil. Carbon monoxide does damage by replacing oxygen in bloodstream, leading to suffocation. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning vary from flu-like symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness, to more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and unconsciousness. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in death.
The good news is that you can prevent carbon monoxide from ever becoming a threat to you and your family. Routine maintenance of your home heating and cooking sources, as well as vehicles and generators, can make the difference in your exposure to carbon monoxide. The U.S. National Safety Council states that of deaths involving unintentional poisoning by gas or vapors, more than one-third involve motor vehicle exhaust and more than one-fourth involve heating or cooking equipment.
The National Fire Protection Association recommends installing carbon monoxide alarms in your home. It is critical that you follow the guidelines to ensure safe and proper usage of the alarms.
o Only purchase an alarm that is listed by a qualified, independent testing laboratory.
o Many alarms need replacing within two to five years. Make sure to note the date you installed your alarm so you can comply with the manufacturer's suggestions for replacement.
o If you purchase a battery-powered alarm, examine the type of batteries required. Some alarms have special battery packs designed to last approximately two years, while others may need to be changed yearly.
o Locate the alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
o Keep your local fire department's number for carbon monoxide calls with your other emergency numbers for quick access.
o Test the alarms once every month to ensure they are in good working order.
If your carbon monoxide alarm should go off, leave the building immediately. Leave the doors open when you leave and turn off heating and cooking equipment. Call your local fire department and following an all-clear, have all your equipment inspected by a qualified technician. And lastly, get medical attention as necessary. Do not ignore signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, even if they appear to be minor. By following these tips, you can ensure your safety from carbon monoxide throughout the winter and year-round. (http://www.loudoun-insurance.com/)
Labels: Aldie 20105 Homeowners Insurance, Aldie 20105 Property Insurance, Brambleton Homeowners Insurance, Brambleton Property Insurance, Stone Ridge Homeowners Insurance, Stone Ridge Property Insurance
posted by Khalid Umerani @ 10:03 AM
NOVA Insurance (20152) Group - Loudoun Insurance
<< Home