Hundreds of people die every year in their homes due to carbon monoxide poisoning. We were all reminded of how dangerous carbon monoxide can be during the severe storms in Texas a month ago. This is one reason why My Father’s Mechanical offers carbon monoxide testing services to our residential and commercial clients to make sure their heating systems are not releasing any of this dangerous gas into the interior environment. Let’s talk about carbon monoxide.
What Is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide is released by any fuel-burning appliance or machine. This includes your automobile. Carbon monoxide is toxic to humans and animals, which is why it is so dangerous. Another reason why it is so dangerous is that it has no color, so you can’t see it, and it has no odor, so you can smell it. Because of this, many people are poisoned by carbon monoxide in their sleep.
Can I Avoid Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide production is unavoidable because it is a natural byproduct of any fuel-burning process. In other words, if you have a gas cooking stove, a gas furnace, or even a gas camp stove, all of these things produce carbon monoxide when you use them. Again, so does your automobile. This is why it is so important to have these appliances properly vented. Like your vehicle’s tailpipe, the vents release the carbon monoxide away from you so you aren’t harmed by it.
Am I At Risk for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Everyone, including your pets, is at risk for CO poisoning. Some people can be poisoned easier than others, however, including infants, senior citizens, and those with coronary or respiratory illnesses. Obviously, small pets would also be more susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning because of their size. All of this said CO gas can also make very healthy people ill or kill them.
What Are the Signs of CO Illness?
In many cases, you may be able to determine that carbon monoxide is making you and your family ill because there are signs of CO poisoning. These signs include
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Flu-like illness
- Headache
- Lethargy
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness
If you or any of your family members experience these symptoms, it is important to get everyone out of the home immediately and call for help.
Call My Father’s Mechanical in San Antonio, TX, to schedule a carbon monoxide test for your home. We will make certain that your gas heater is not releasing CO gas into your home.