KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – BEWARE OF CARBON MONOXIDE

KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – BEWARE OF CARBON MONOXIDE

We need to think of carbon monoxide detectors this time of year when we are using the furnace.

Carbon Monoxide is an odorless tasteless gas. The symptoms of exposure often mimic that of a head cold or the flu. The symptoms include nausea dizziness fatigue vomiting etc.

More than 500 people die each year from CO poisoning. Many thousands more recover.

There can be lasting health problems such as blindness and other neurological issues for people exposed to CO.

CO detectors are mandatory in Chicago and most municipalities in the area. They are your best defense against CO poisoning. But you must make sure they are operational. New homes have smoke and CO detectors hard wired in. In my home I use ones that plug into the wall. If you use plug ins they need to be replaced regularly say every two years. Place detectors near all combustion appliances. These include furnace water heater wood burning fireplace gas stove etc. Also place a detector by your bedroom. You might not hear an alarm in the basement while sound asleep.

Maintain all your combustion appliances. Have your furnace checked regularly by a professional. Newer furnaces are of course safer but still have them checked. Always have chimneys checked by a professional before the season.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO