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CARBON MONOXIDE: THE SILENT KILLER
The silent killer is Carbon Monoxide
poisoning. Carbon Monoxide is a toxic gas produced by burning any fuel. It is odourless
and colourless.
Sources of carbon monoxide are:
- Motor vehicles, (exhaust fumes)
- Heaters and appliances (that burn carbon
based fuels)
- Gas and oil burners
- Space heaters
- Poorly maintained chimneys
- Malfunctioning heating systems
- Improper use of heating systems
- Inadequate ventilation.
Carbon monoxide poisoning kills.
Anyone who doesn't feel well and who suspects exposure to carbon monoxide should seek
medical attention. Carbon monoxide can remain in the brain and tissues, affecting memory,
reasoning and other brain functions.
Signs and symptoms:
The warning signs of Carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness and disorientation.
In high concentrations, Carbon monoxide
can cause loss of consciousness and death. Many victims die in their sleep.
Treatment:
If you suspect Carbon monoxide might be in your environment, you should turn off the
heater or source of the gas, open windows to ventilate all rooms or go outside and get
some fresh air. If in a vehicle, switch off the engine and remove yourself or the person
from the vehicle. Seek emergency medical assistance. When inhaled, carbon monoxide is
quickly absorbed into the blood. It displaces oxygen by combining with the blood's oxygen
carrying molecule, haemoglobin, with a bond 240 times stronger than oxygen's. If you find
someone who you suspect maybe suffering from carbon monoxide posioning, remove him from
the area and check the ABCs (Airway, Breathing
and Circulation) and begin resuscitation
if required.
Useful tips:
- Install proper ventilation in all homes,
mobile homes, garages and work places.
- Ventilation - don't block them off.
- Use carbon monoxide detectors in the home.
- Remove vehicles from the garage
immediately after starting the ignition.
- Do not run a vehicle or other fuelled
engine or motor indoors, even if the garage doors are open.
- Have your vehicle inspected for exhaust
leaks if you have any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Always use barbecue grills, which can
produce carbon monoxide, outside. Never use them in the home or garage.
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