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Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: The Quiet Killer

A mother and sonPrevent carbon monoxide poisoning by having your fuel-burning appliances serviced annually and by installing a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector. Check or change its batteries each time you change your clocks. Download a video that shows where exposures can occur in your home.

 

Screen capture from CDC-TV: Quiet Killer Watch or download the video. (Video icon 3:15 mins)

Carbon monoxide is a killer. To help highlight the dangers of carbon monoxide in the home and how to prevent exposure to it, CDC-TV has released a new video, "The Quiet Killer," in its "Health Matters" series. The video features interviews with environmental health experts, a medical doctor, and first responders who explain the dangers of carbon monoxide and show where exposures can occur in people's homes. In particular, the video provides clear guidance on how to install carbon monoxide detectors, the importance of proper venting and maintenance of heating systems, and where to place portable generators which can emit carbon monoxide. Users can download the video or the podcast at CDC-TV or they can access it on their mobile phones. Organizations can use the video in a number of ways to help inform homeowners, renters, or loved ones about the dangers of carbon monoxide.

Change Batteries and Check Appliances

Daylight Saving Time ends at 2:00 a.m. on the first Sunday in November. When you set your clock back one hour, remember to check or change the batteries in your battery-operated carbon monoxide (CO) detector and check your fuel-burning appliances. Each year unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires kills about 500 Americans and poisons at least 15,000.

Photo: A man checking a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector

You can protect your family and prevent CO poisoning by taking just a few simple steps:

  • Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
  • Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911.
  • Don't burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't vented.
  • Don't run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
  • Don't heat your house with a gas oven.
  • Never use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window.
  • Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseated.

More Information

USA.gov: The U.S. Government's Official Web PortalDepartment of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   1600 Clifton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348, 24 Hours/Every Day - cdcinfo@cdc.gov

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