Beware of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Test your Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Don’t ignore the beeping sound of your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm.

Yes. We are talking to you, the person who has justified the sound to low batteries. Admittingly, that has been me. It could be low batteries but don't take that risk. Do you know that besides water and fire disasters, we also have cleaned after TRAUMA disasters related to CO poisoning? Death by carbon monoxide is tragic and traumatic for anyone involved. What’s worst is that carbon monoxide is an invisible, tasteless, and odorless gas so there are no alarming indicators to alert you naturally and right away. 

Here are a few tips to make sure you and your family are safe in your home.

1. Test your Carbon Monoxide Alarm monthly.
2. Install CO alarms on the outside of bedrooms and on each floor including the basement.
3. Invest in a Plug-in with Battery Backup CO Alarm.
4. First Alert recommends replacing CO alarms every 5-7 years.
5. If the alarm goes off, quickly go outside and call 9-1-1.

Household items that produce CO.

It is important to do a maintenance check-up on heating sources such as the furnace, generators, stove, oven, dryer, and chimneys to ensure everything is working properly. Changing filters on your equipment will help it be more efficient and safer. In addition, do not leave your car running in an enclosed space even if you are just heating up the car before traveling especially if it’s the enclosed space is an attached garage.

P.S. If you visiting a family or friend overnight and they are ignoring a beeping CO alarm, DO NOT STAY THERE.

We are here to help PREVENT disasters. Disaster will always happen and although we are good at restoring homes and content, we can’t restore someone's passing. That’s why it’s important for us to share safety tips and bring awareness to topics such as these. Be safe.

More Resources: 6 Things to Know About Carbon Monoxide Alarms.