SUNDAY, Feb. 2, 2003 (HealthDayNews) -- Are you letting a silent killer into your home?
High levels of carbon monoxide (CO) can kill people within minutes, but you can't see or smell the danger, says the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Each year, hundreds of Americans die from CO poisoning in their homes, and thousands seek medical help. Hazardous levels of CO can be produced by appliances that burn such fuel as gas, oil, kerosene, wood or charcoal if the appliances don't work properly or are used incorrectly.
Another potential source of CO poisoning comes from cars idling in garages. The CO from the car exhaust can seep into the house.
While CO poisoning is a health threat to everyone, some people are especially vulnerable. They include infants, fetuses, elderly people and people with anemia and heart and respiratory disease.
The EPA offers advice on how to prevent CO poisoning. You should have all fuel-burning appliances inspected by a trained professional at the start of every heating season.
When buying fuel-burning appliances, choose types that vent their fumes to the outside of your home. Have them properly installed and maintain them.
If you have to use an unvented gas or kerosene space heater, pay close attention to all the cautions that come with the heater. Use the specified fuel. When using the heater, keep doors to the rest of the house open and open a window enough to get ventilation and proper fuel burning.
Never idle your car in the garage, even if the garage door is open. Don't use a gas oven to heat your home and don't use a charcoal grill inside your home.
More information
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers answers to frequently asked questions about CO poisoning.
