| Why
is CO so deadly? CO is an odorless, colorless gas
which causes oxygen loss in the bloodstream and prevents the
flow of oxygen to the heart, brain and other vital
organs. While many victims are aware they are not well,
they often become so disoriented that they are unable to help
themselves by either exiting the home or calling for
assistance. Exposure during sleep is particularly
dangerous as the victim may not awaken.
What
are the most common sources of Carbon Monoxide? CO
is produced when any type of fossil fuel (including wood, fuel
oil, kerosene, natural gas or propane) is incompletely burned
or exposed to heat. If fuel-burning appliances in your
home malfunction or are not properly ventilated, CO can build
up and cause a hazardous condition. The danger is even
greater in weather-tight modern homes. Another source of
CO is automobile exhaust, which could enter your home from a
car left running in an attached garage. |
