Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning with These Tips

Carbon monoxide: you can't see it, taste it, or smell it, yet it can be extremely harmful to your health. Particularly young children, unborn babies, and pregnant women are at greater risk of carbon monoxide poisoning because they are extra sensitive to this gas. It's not without reason that the Burns Foundation warns about this 'silent killer.' Did you know that even modern central heating systems are not always safe? Fortunately, there are things you can do yourself to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning for you and your family.

What exactly is carbon monoxide? Carbon monoxide, also known as CO, is a colorless gas that is produced, for example, by the incomplete combustion of carbon, fossil fuels, or other combustible carbon compounds. It is important to know that carbon monoxide is particularly released by, for example, a poorly maintained stove or water heater. Did you know that almost half of carbon monoxide poisonings are caused by modern central heating systems? This can occur, for example, because the systems are set to the wrong type of fuel, the oxygen supply is too small, or parts are broken without being noticed. Bird nests or debris in the exhaust can also cause carbon monoxide to enter your home. Precisely because the gas released is colorless and odorless, carbon monoxide is so dangerous. You notice nothing until you experience certain symptoms.

What are the symptoms?
Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, drowsiness, fainting, a rapid heartbeat, and confusion: these are the main symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. At high concentrations, you can even become unconscious, fall into a coma, or in the worst case, die. In the Netherlands, no fewer than eleven people die annually from carbon monoxide poisoning. Another one hundred and fifty people end up in the hospital. Shocking, isn't it? Especially when you know that you can prevent possible carbon monoxide poisoning with a few simple actions.

How do I prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

1. Use a carbon monoxide detector and check if it meets safety standards. Research by the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) shows that not all CO detectors signal carbon monoxide in time. So if you purchase one or have one hanging, first check onthis website.. There you will see all brands and meters listed with the results from the research.
2. Have your central heating system, water heater, stove, and fireplace checked by a professional at least once a year.
3. Ventilate your home well, keep air vents or windows (partially) open. Both during the day and at night.

What should I do in case of carbon monoxide poisoning?

• Immediately open windows and doors
• Warn everyone in the house
• Go outside as quickly as possible
• Call 112. The emergency center will tell you what to do next.

Sources:Burns FoundationandFire Department