Carbon Monoxide... The Silent Killer.

Take the test. You didn't smell anything, did you? That's because Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by the burning of any fossil fuel. The initial symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu, and include dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea and irregular breathing. Exposure to high levels of CO can cause death. In fact more than 10,000 people a year are treated for CO poisoning and more than 200 die. As summer turns to fall, much of North America turns up the heat to ward off the first frost or temperature drop. It is also the time of year when Carbon Monoxide poisonings start to escalate.

While heating systems tend to be the most obvious source of carbon monoxide, they are not the only cause of CO poisoning. Lack of adequate ventilation for household appliances, portable heaters, blocked or damaged vents and chimneys can all lead to CO poisoning.

Recent storms and flooding across North America have also contributed greatly to O hazards. Gasoline powered generators should never be used indoors because of the high risk of CO poisoning (opening doors and windows does not provide adequate ventilation and does not guarantee safety!). All gas control valves, electronic circuit breakers, fuses and ground fault circuit interoeptors (GFCI's) that have been under water must be checked or replaced by qualified service personnel to avoid electrocution, explosions and fires.

The above information is presented by HouseMaster, "The Home Inspection Professionals", for general guidance purposes only. HouseMaster makes no warranty or representation, express or implied, with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and assumes no liability rleated to the use of or for damages resulting from the use of any information, equipment, method or process discussed herein. Contact local qualified consultants and/or contractors for advice pertinent to your specific circumstances or concerns.