April is Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Month Month and at Henderson Brothers, we want to ensure the safety of our clients’ families and homes from carbon monoxide. One of the most dangerous and often overlooked threats to home safety is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 400 people die and 50,000 people visit emergency rooms annually due to unintentional CO poisoning.

CO is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be produced by faulty appliances, such as gas stoves and water heaters, as well as vehicles left running in enclosed spaces. CO can quickly build up in a home, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. In severe cases, CO poisoning can lead to loss of consciousness and death.

To protect your family from CO poisoning, it is important to have a functioning CO detector in your home. There are different types of detectors available on the market, such as battery-operated and hardwired detectors. It is crucial to choose a detector that meets your needs and provides reliable protection for your family.

Here are some tips to help you choose the right CO detector for your home:

• Look for a detector that meets the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standard. UL is an independent safety organization that sets standards for various products, including CO detectors. A UL-listed detector has undergone testing and meets certain safety standards.
• Choose a detector with an audible alarm. A loud alarm will alert you and your family if dangerous levels of CO are detected in your home.
• Consider a detector with a digital display. A digital display will show the level of CO in your home, allowing you to take action if necessary.
• Install detectors near sleeping areas. CO poisoning can occur while you are sleeping, so it is important to have a detector installed in or near each bedroom.
• Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every level of your home, including the basement and the garage. They should be installed near sleeping areas and at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances.
• Test your detectors regularly. Test your CO detectors monthly to ensure they are working properly. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

By understanding the dangers of carbon monoxide and installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home, you can protect yourself and your family from this silent killer. Remember to also have your fuel-burning appliances inspected annually and never use a portable generator or grill inside your home or garage. Stay safe and be aware of the risks associated with carbon monoxide.

Please note that the information contained in this posting is designed to provide general awareness in regard to the subject matter covered. It is not provided as legal, medical, or tax advice, nor is it intended to address all concerns in your workplace or for public health. No representation is made as to the sufficiency for your specific company’s needs. This post should be reviewed by your legal counsel or tax consultant before use.