Carbon monoxide, commonly known as CO, is a colorless and odorless gas. CO is poisonous to humans and contributes to approximately 2,000 deaths per year in the United States. It is most commonly created by combustion reactions and negatively contributes to climate change. The dangers of carbon monoxide should be taken seriously, but can easily be addressed with the proper tools and preparation.
Why is carbon monoxide toxic?
The fact that fire in enclosed spaces releases toxic fumes was probably known to prehistoric humans and was first recorded by Aristotle. It has been suggested that Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the kingdom of Egypt, may have died of carbon monoxide poisoning.
We now know that carbon monoxide is toxic because it fuses with hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen through red blood cells to different parts of the body. Hemoglobin is unable to dissolve easily from carbon monoxide, causing asphyxia and hypoxia (oxygen deprivation).
Carbon monoxide poisoning is treatable if caught quickly enough. It is usually treated in the emergency room by giving concentrated doses of oxygen to help the body get rid of carbon monoxide in the blood more quickly.
Where could a carbon monoxide leak come from?
CO is produced every time something burns. Problems usually arise when the area where the material is burning is not well ventilated, as there is not enough oxygen to create the safer carbon dioxide. Common household sources of carbon monoxide include combustion appliances such as:
- Dryers
- Water heater
- Fireplaces
- Natural gas ovens and stoves
- Charcoal grills
- Space heaters
- Wood stoves
- lawn mowers
Sources of CO that are not appliances include tobacco smoke, motor vehicles, propane products, camp stoves, and portable generators. Water heaters and boilers are required by law to have carbon monoxide detectors installed with them. Other generating sources should be properly ventilated and maintained to prevent CO levels from exceeding the federal standard of 9 ppm (parts per million) for fresh air.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:
- Heachache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Upset stomach
- Vomit
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms can often be confused with the flu and are sometimes ignored. Continued exposure to carbon monoxide can cause brain damage, loss of consciousness and can be fatal. Children, older adults and family members with underlying conditions such as heart disease and asthma may be more affected by the health effects of high levels of exposure to carbon monoxide.
If you believe you have been exposed to CO poisoning, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Exposure can be completely reversed with treatment if caught early.
What can I do to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?
- Consider purchasing a CO detector and regularly test its effectiveness by changing the battery periodically.
- Use fire department-approved smoke detectors to help improve indoor air quality and maintain low CO levels, especially around sleeping areas.
- Have any appliance that produces CO, such as your heating system, gas stove or water heater, checked and repaired regularly by a professional.
- Maintain adequate ventilation for gas appliances and fireplaces.
- Do not drive your car inside attached garages; Also, have a mechanic check your car’s systems regularly to prevent the buildup of CO from the car’s exhaust
For more information on how to best prepare your home for the threat of a carbon monoxide leak, read Money’s picks for the best home security systems.