Officials warn of danger from carbon monoxide
Carbon-monoxide poisoning claims the lives of more than 2,000 people each year in the United States, according to the American Medical Association, and Marble Falls Fire Marshal Johnny Caraway said many of those deaths are preventable.
“They call it the silent killer,” Caraway said. “A lot of people die in their sleep, but it’s something you can prevent by having fuel-burning heaters in your home checked.”
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas produced by fuel-burning devices such as automobiles, wood-burning stoves, fireplaces or furnaces.
The gas is a deadly poison to humans and animals; breathing it can lead to dizziness, nausea, severe headaches and eventually death.
Caraway said many who suffer carbon monoxide poisoning aren’t aware there’s a problem until it’s too late.
“The symptoms are very similar to the flu,” he said. “Because of that, you may not know you’re suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning.”
Cases often occur in homes that aren’t well-ventilated, though Caraway said poorly maintained appliances can also lead to a buildup of the gas.
“It can happen with any fuel-burning appliances such as oil or gas furnaces, gas ranges and ovens, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves,” he said. “They’re all things we have to be concerned with. Even a gas water heater’s vent may become clogged or displaced, and that could lead to a buildup.”
Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces are especially troublesome if not carefully monitored, Caraway said.
“A lot of people stoke up the fireplace or heater and go to bed,” he said. “What a lot of people don’t know is that when the fire is almost out, that’s when it’s producing the most carbon monoxide.”
Even low levels of carbon monoxide can cause shortness of breath and mental confusion, Caraway said.
“That’s why we suggest to people that they have a professional come out and check their heaters, furnaces or fireplaces for clogs or buildups,” he said. “It might be expensive, especially the way things are lately, but it could save your life.”
Residents are also urged to install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes.
“Detectors can alert you if there’s a buildup of carbon monoxide before it gets to deadly levels,” Caraway said. “If your alarm goes off, call the Fire Department immediately.”
Detectors generally cost about $40 apiece, and can be purchased in hardware stores or online, Caraway said.
Even with the detectors, Caraway said the best weapon against carbon-monoxide poisoning is vigilance.
“Get your chimneys and furnaces checked out once a year,” he said. “More importantly, if you’re running a heater and start feeling bad, get to the doctor immediately.”
chris@thepicayune.com