Winter safety goes beyond ice and freezing temps: tips to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning

Old Man Winter has been kind to New England this year. Less snow and warmer temperatures have been the norm in recent weeks. But don’t let moderate snow fall and unseasonable temperatures fool you. Protecting your family from carbon monoxide (also known as CO) poisoning is of utmost importance, experts say. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, carbon monoxide often called the silent killer, is responsible for more than 20,000 visit the emergency room and more than 4,000 hospitalizations. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless, making leaks and buildups difficult to notice. Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning Carbon monoxide enters the air through a variety sources like car exhaust, indoor charcoal grills, furnaces and other devices powered by fossil fuels. Complicating its detection even more, the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning resemble those of flu, cold or infection. A ringing in the ears, headache, nausea, weakness and/or dizziness all could indicate that a person is being poisoned by carbon monoxide. Because these symptoms are often associated with less serious illnesses, many people who are overexposed to carbon monoxide mistakenly think they’re catching a seasonal bug. In many cases, the affected person will lie down or rest to feel better. Some never wake up. Exposure to carbon monoxide can be especially problematic for young children. Because kids have faster heartbeats and accelerated breathing rates, carbon...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Kids' Safety carbon monoxide poisoning Source Type: news