Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and potentially fatal. Annual chimney inspections are one of the most important defenses against CO buildup in your home.
How is carbon monoxide (CO) produced?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fossil fuels such as gasoline, natural gas, oil, and others are burned. Carbon monoxide can build up in your home without your knowledge because carbon monoxide is oderless and colorless.
What types of appliances can product carbon monoxide?
There are many types of appliances that can produce carbon monoxide. Appliances such as your furnace, boiler, fireplace, gas dryer, grill, cars, small gasoline engines and many more.
It is it important to have these appliances and venting systems for them check regularly for defects. Specific to our trade, having your chimneys, fireplaces and stoves cleaned and inspected regularly by a certified professional. Many of our members also clean and inspect dryer vents for blockages that can cause fires and/or carbon monoxide.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Often the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are described as "flu-like" symptoms. Symptoms such as headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion are common effects of carbon monoxide poisioning. People who have consumed excess alcohol, drugs or people who are sleeping can die before they even have these symptoms.
Helpful Links about Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
There are several authoritative resources for learning more about carbon monoxide poisoning: