CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) PRECAUTIONS
WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE?
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless,
tasteless gas produced when fuels do not burn
completely, or are exposed to heat (usually fire).
These fuels include: wood, coal, charcoal, oil
natural gas, gasoline, kerosene and propane.
Common appliances that are often sources
of CO include oil or gas burning boiler, gas
ovens, wood-burning fireplaces, and charcoal
grills. If they are not properly maintained, are
improperly ventilated or malfunction, CO levels
can rise quickly. Additional sources include
space and water heating, cooking, uncontrolled
burning, tobacco smoking, internal combustion
engine. CO is a real danger now that homes are
more energy efficient. “Air-tight” homes with
added insulation, sealed windows, and other
weatherproofing can “trap” CO inside.
Electrical appliances typically do not produce CO.
High concentrations of tobacco smoke may
give rise to alarms. The smoke/CO alarm may
also respond to brief exhaust gas emissions,
for example during the initial start-up of an
appliance.
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
The following symptoms are related to CARBON
MONOXIDE POISONING and are to be discussed
with ALL members of the household:
• Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea,
vomiting, fatigue (often described as
‘Flu-like’ symptoms).
• Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache,
drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
WHERE NOT TO INSTALL YOUR CARBON
MONOXIDE ALARMS
• Keep carbon monoxide alarm at least 1.5 m
(5 ft) away from any cooking appliance
including stovetop, oven, microwave, etc.
• This alarm should not be installed in locations
where the temperature is below 4 °C (40 °F)
or above 38 °C (100 °F).
• In a enclosed space (for example in a cupboard
or behind a curtain)
• Where it can be obstructed (for example by
furniture)
• Directly above a sink
• Next to a door or window
• Next to an extractor fan
• Next to an air vent or other similar ventilation
openings
• Where dirt and dust may block the sensor
• In a damp or humid location
EXAMPLES OF WHEN YOUR SMOKE ALARM MAY
NOT BE EFFECTIVE
Your alarm may not be effective in protecting
against fire in certain cases:
• Smoking in bed
• Leaving children unsupervised
• Cleaning with flammable liquids, like gasoline
• When someone’s clothes have caught on fire
• Fires where the smoke is prevented from
reaching the alarm due to a closed door or
other obstruction
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