Carbon monoxide poisoning deaths are most common in winter months. In fact, almost two-thirds of carbon monoxide deaths that aren’t related to fires occur in cold weather. Furnaces, portable heaters, and portable gas generators can all cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the “invisible killer” because you can’t smell or see it in your home. According to the CDC, it kills over 400 individuals each year.
Initial carbon monoxide symptoms include fatigue, nausea, headache, shortness of breath, and dizziness. High level symptoms include vomiting, mental confusion, loss of coordination, loss of consciousness, and ultimately death.
You can avoid carbon monoxide poisoning with these safety tips:
- Install a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.
- If you already have carbon monoxide detectors installed, test them to be sure that they work properly. Replace the batteries if needed. Carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every five years or as often as the manufacturer recommends.
- Don’t use portable generators inside your home, garage, basement, or any semi-enclosed spaced. Generators should be kept at least 20 feet from your home when they are in use.
- Have a professional check your chimneys and any fuel-burning appliances to ensure they work properly and are correctly vented.
- Don’t leave vehicle running inside an attached garage, even if the garage door is open.
Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning this winter. Talk to your family and friends about safely heating their homes.
If you or a loved one has been injured by carbon monoxide poisoning related to a defective carbon monoxide detector, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
