Carbon monoxide is the silent killer because it is odorless and cannot be seen. Carbon monoxide claims thousands of lives and leaves many others with life-long illnesses. This killer gas can come from anywhere in your home with gas or burning involved. Our team at Champion AC & Plumbing Austin wants to ensure you have the knowledge to prevent this poisonous gas.
Do’s and Don’ts of Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
DO: Get Your Appliances Serviced
Our number one recommendation is to get your appliances serviced at least once a year. The best time to schedule is during the fall before you start using your gas appliances more in the winter. Getting your appliances serviced is the first step in ensuring your home is safe. The next step is to get a carbon monoxide test for your home, or you can give us a call to perform one for you.
DO: Get Carbon Monoxide Tests
Installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home is the next step. While a sensor is a great choice to catch CO in your home, carbon monoxide tests will still be the choice for your home. We recommend you should install each room with a sensor as well as in the area where your furnace lives. You can also find carbon monoxide tests at your local hardware stores.
DO: Know the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Knowing what to look for when it comes to carbon monoxide poisoning makes it easier to detect and react quicker. The three main symptoms to watch out for are:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
If more than one person begins to show these symptoms call medical help immediately and get away from your home. Carbon monoxide affects children and pets first.
DON’T: Misuse Your Gas Appliances
It is essential to know how to use your gas appliances to ensure you do not misuse them and cause carbon monoxide levels to rise in your home. Here are a few things to not do with your devices:
- Never leave an automobile running in a garage, even with the door open.
- Do not burn anything that does not have proper ventilation.
- Never use your gas oven to heat your home.
- Never use any gasoline-operated machine more than 20 feet away from any window.
By following these do’s and don’ts, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home will significantly decrease. But what should you do if you suspect carbon monoxide in your home? It is essential to know how to prevent this silent killer and keep your family safe.
What To Do If There Is Carbon Monoxide In Your Home
Your first step is to leave your house immediately and stay calm. If someone is unconscious or not breathing, call 911 for medical services. Otherwise, once everyone is out of the house, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222 for personal assistance on what to do next.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be when you put your trust in us, Champion AC & Plumbing Austin. We want to ensure that you are safe in your home. Call us today to schedule your yearly inspection or if you have any further questions about carbon monoxide in your home.
