Carbon Monoxide

The silent killer, carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that typically originates from incomplete combustion. The symptoms are typically flu-like, with nausea, weakness, headache, and vomiting among them, but with no obvious sensory warning, these can be easily overlooked with deadly consequences. Over 400 people in the US lose their life every year to this otherwise preventable hazard. Protect yourself by ensuring your monoxide detectors are functional and within warranty, and avoid hazards that can cause carbon monoxide to build up.

Toxicity

Carbon monoxide has several paths in the body to cause toxicity only one of which is to bind to hemoglobin in the bloodstream. This creates carboxyhemoglobin, reducing the carrying capacity of oxygen in the blood, causing hypoxia, or lack of oxygen to tissue. Carbon monoxide does occur naturally, so there are mechanisms in the body to reverse some of these effects, but these are easily overwhelmed.

Protection Against Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide alarms are a first line of defense for incidental exposure, and should be within 10 feet of every bedroom, and on every floor. These alarms should be tested regularly, and need to be replaced periodically according to local laws and manufacturer warranty. A good rule of thumb is to test all alarms when daylight savings changes. Fortunately, carbon monoxide alarms can be inexpensive and easy to use. Stick with name-brands for these alarms, as just because the packaging says it’s safety listed, doesn’t mean it actually is. If in doubt, chain brick-and-mortar stores will carry reputable alarms, however purchasing online can allow recall warnings be sent directly to you in case of product defect.

The most frequent source of carbon monoxide in the home is malfunctioning gas-powered equipment, such as furnaces or boilers. Furnaces typically have heat-exchangers designed to heat your home’s air without allowing the combustion gasses to directly mix. These can wear out with normal use, creating leaks that allow the gasses to mix with the air, and spread throughout your home. Incorrectly installed or blocked flues from boilers, hot water heaters, and furnaces can also be a source of carbon monoxide, as the combustion gasses can no longer escape outside. Other gas-powered equipment, such as stoves and ovens can also be sources of carbon monoxide. Don’t hear your home with a gas-powered oven, as the oven is designed to operate while shut. Stationary home equipment isn’t the only source of carbon monoxide, however. All combustion has the capability of creating carbon monoxide. Electric generators and gas-powered equipment should be run outside, far away from open doors, vents, and windows to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Combustion vehicles should not be let warm up inside garages

Carbon monoxide can be partially avoided by following proper equipment operation and maintenance, but emergencies can still arise. A combination of properly maintained and operating alarms paired with preventative behavior can help ensure your safety against this forgotten but deadly hazard.