Check your carbon monoxide alarm ASAP before the winter storm, experts warn
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Experts are warning to take precautions with gas-powered heaters and appliances during this frigid cold.
According to the Oregon Poison Center at OHSU, now is a great time to check your carbon monoxide detectors to make sure your batteries are working.
“Sometimes severe weather can send debris flying, it can block ventilation lines, it can block chimneys and people don't realize those things have happened and the carbon monoxide from your wood stove may back up into your home,” said Jennifer Eskridge, a community outreach educator with the center.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that — if inhaled — can cause severe illness or even death, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC says common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. However, those who are sleeping could die before showing symptoms.
“Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires, more than 100,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 14,000 are hospitalized,” according to the CDC.
In Oregon, the poison center manages roughly 200 cases of CO poisoning every year.
To avoid becoming a case, the center recommends the following:
- Don't use a gas range or oven to heat a home.
- Don't use grills or portable stoves inside a home, tent or camper.
- Portable generators should be used 25 feet from a window, door or vent.
- Basements and garages aren't safe places to run generators — even if doors and windows are open.
- Think about ventilation for your wood stove as well.