Winter is one of the most dangerous time of the year and for more than just icy road conditions. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, known as a “silent killer”, has an increase in occurrences during the colder months, and a report from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) says 5,149 American succumbed to it from 1999 to 2010. “Winter is a peak time for carbon monoxide poisoning, since more people are cranking up their gas furnace, using fireplaces or wood-stoves and spending more time indoors,” says Gerald Peek, director of environmental health safety and training for MidAmerican Energy Company. “Because you can’t see it, smell it or taste it, you may be overcome by carbon monoxide before you even realize you have been exposed to it.” To prevent carbon monoxide from building up in your home install at least one CO detector on each level of your home, inspect your heating systems annually, do not run fuel burning equipment in your home and never leave your car running in an attached garage, even if the overhead door is open. CO poisoning can be hard to detect, but knowing the symptoms can make all the difference. In the early stages, it is often characterized by headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. At higher levels, you may experience vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, convulsions, loss of consciousness and eventually death. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get outside into fresh air immediately and call 911.
