With cold weather approaching, the Farmington Valley Health District reminds residents of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide is a by-product of combustion. In the home, appliances including furnaces, water heaters, non-electric space heaters, poorly vented fire places or wood stoves can all be sources of carbon monoxide. During the winter months, heating appliances are being used regularly and houses are closed up which can contribute to the build up of carbon monoxide especially if appliances are not working properly or are vented poorly.
Carbon monoxide is known as the "silent" killer because it is colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating.
Annual maintenance of home heating systems, including furnaces, fireplaces, chimneys and other heat sources should be done annually. CO detectors should be installed to alert residents of elevated levels of CO so residents can evacuate and seek help.
FVHD also warns against the improper use of portable generators and charcoal grills during power outages. Never use them inside the home! Unfortunately Connecticut experiences preventable carbon monoxide poisonings and deaths, often during the winter months and during power outages. CO exposure is the leading cause of death due to poisoning in the United States. However, CO deaths are entirely preventable.
