What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that forms from incomplete combustion of fuels, such as natural or liquefied petroleum gas, oil, wood or coal. This article looks at the importance of Carbon Monoxide Detectors.
Facts and Figures
- 480 U.S. residents died between 2001 and 2003 from non-fire-related carbon-monoxide poisoning.
- Most CO exposures occur during the winter months, especially in December (including 56 deaths, and 2,157 non-fatal exposures), and in January (including 69 deaths and 2,511 non-fatal exposures). The peak time of day for CO exposure is between 6 and 10 p.m.
- Many experts believe that CO poisoning statistics understate the problem. Because the symptoms of CO poisoning mimic a range of common health ailments, it is likely that a large number of mild to mid-level exposures are never identified, diagnosed, or accounted for in any way in carbon monoxide statistics.
- Out of all reported non-fire carbon-monoxide incidents, 89% or almost nine out of 10 of them take place in a home.
Physiology of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
When CO is inhaled, it displaces the oxygen and effectively suffocates the body. CO can poison slowly over a period of several hours, even in low concentrations. Sensitive organs, such as the brain, heart and lungs, suffer the most from a lack of oxygen.
High concentrations of carbon monoxide can kill in less than five minutes. Exceeding the EPA concentration of 9 parts per million (ppm) for more than eight hours may have adverse health affects. The limit of CO exposure for healthy workers, as prescribed by the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration, is 50 ppm.
Recommendations
When purchasing a home for you and your family, make sure you have the appropriate Smoke and CO detectors in your home in the appropriate locations. If you don’t have a CO detector in your home, please pick one up today. They are more affordable and readily available than ever before:
Many smoke alarms are also CO detectors so read the label. Also, most detectors now come with a 10 year battery for improved safety.
Let us inspect your potential new home to ensure your family’s safety. Scheduling has never been easier with our On-Line 24/7 scheduler.
Scott Price, CPI, #1532
Certified Master Inspector
Home Run Inspections
405-905-9175
Info@HomeRunInspections.com
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